Convergence of central pain and stress signaling in alcohol dependence

A key feature of severe alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the emergence of negative affective states that can influence the motivational properties of alcohol. Pain represents one such negative emotional state hypothesized to drive AUD severity, and this relationship is particularly concerning since there are few effective treatments for either chronic pain or AUD. Ascending nociceptive circuitry alters the function of central brain stress and reinforcement systems, and excessive alcohol exposure also produces neuroadaptations within nociceptive-terminal brain regions, including the central amygdala and cingulate cortex.
Source: Alcohol - Category: Addiction Authors: Source Type: research