Stress-related effects of ethanol in mammals.

The interactions of ethanol and stress are complex; some experimental models of stress cause increases in voluntary consumption of ethanol by animals, but others do not. Conversely, low doses relieve the effects of some stressors but not of others, while high doses of ethanol give rise to stress, and tolerances can develop to both effects. Recent studies of the molecular mechanisms of action of ethanol and benzodiazepines have not yet revealed fully the basis of the anti-stress effects of either. Clinical and epidemiological studies suggest that both the stress-relieving and -inducing actions of ethanol are important in human disease.