Is alcohol classified as a depressant or a stimulant?

Alcohol is classified as a depressant primarily because it has a calming effect on the central nervous system. It functions by enhancing the action of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which leads to a decrease in neural activity. This results in a range of effects including relaxation, lowered inhibitions, and drowsiness.

While some people might initially experience a stimulating effect in low doses, the overarching classification of alcohol is as a depressant due to its primary effects on the body and mind, especially with increased consumption. This categorization helps in understanding how alcohol can impair motor functions and decrease alertness, which are characteristic of depressants. The effects can also vary depending on individual tolerance and consumption levels, but the fundamental nature of alcohol as a depressant remains consistent across most contexts.