Alcohol

Definition

A volatile liquid prepared by fermentation of certain carbohydrates. Alcohol acts as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, a diuretic, and a disinfectant. Although the exact mechanism of CNS depression is unknown, alcohol may act by inhibiting the opening of calcium channels, mediated by the binding of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) to GABA-A receptors, or through inhibitory actions at N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-type glutamate receptors. Alcohol inhibits the production of antidiuretic hormone, thereby producing diuresis that may lead to dehydration. This agent kills organisms by denaturing their proteins.

Also known as Absolute Ethanol, ALCOHOL, Dehydrated Alcohol, Dehydrated Ethanol, ETHANOL, Ethyl Alcohol, Methylcarbinol — per NCIT

Also identified as

• ATC D08AX08 per RXNORM
• ATC V03AB16 per RXNORM
• ATC V03AZ01 per RXNORM
• NCIT NCIT:C2190 per NCIT
• SCTID 398624005 per RXNORM
• SCTID 419442005 per RXNORM
• UNII 3K9958V90M per RXNORM

Indications