Alcohol use disorder

Alcohol use disorder is a condition where a person drinks alcohol excessively and cannot control their drinking despite negative effects. It primarily affects the brain and liver, leading to changes in behavior, mood, and physical health. People with this disorder often experience strong cravings and withdrawal symptoms when not drinking. Over time, it can cause serious problems like liver disease, heart issues, and mental health disorders. The condition impacts daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over intake, and a negative emotional state when not using. It results from neuroadaptive changes in the mesolimbic dopamine pathway and other brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and executive function. The disorder is caused by repeated exposure to alcohol leading to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. AUD is clinically significant due to its association with liver cirrhosis, cardiomyopathy, neurological damage, and increased risk of accidents and psychiatric comorbidities. Diagnosis is based on behavioral criteria reflecting impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological indicators.