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GABA: Definition, Functions, and Role in Addiction

GABA is the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mature mammalian central nervous system. 

The functions of GABA include reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system blocking or slowing down certain brain signals and nerve impulses, GABA produces a calming, inhibitory effect, and regulates various functions, including mood, sleep, memory, attention, and motor control. GABA initially has an excitatory, rather than inhibitory, effect on neurons. GABA ensures brain development and adjusts the proliferation, migration, and differentiation of neural progenitor cells.

The role of GABA in addiction extends the brain’s reward system and the negative emotional states associated with drug withdrawal and dependence. Altered GABA neurotransmission, particularly in the amygdala, is implicated in the development and maintenance of substance addictions and behavioral addictions. Restoring normal GABA function is an important therapeutic target for treating addiction.

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What Is Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)?

GABA, or Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid, is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS), with concentrations ranging from approximately 0.8 to 1.8 mM in the metabolically active pool of a healthy human cortex. It is a non-protein amino acid synthesized from glutamate via the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), predominantly occurring in GABAergic neurons widely distributed throughout the CNS.

According to Shyu et al. (2022) in their review “Quantifying GABA in Addiction: A Review of Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Studies,” GABA is present in 25-50% of all synapses in the CNS. Additionally, its concentration in the healthy human brain remains relatively stable.

GABA exerts its effects by binding to specific receptors on neurons, namely GABA-A and GABA-B receptors. GABA-A receptors are ionotropic, meaning they directly control the flow of chloride ions into the neuron, inducing hyperpolarization and inhibition of action potentials. GABA-B receptors are metabotropic, activating G-proteins that regulate potassium and calcium channels, thereby influencing neurotransmitter release and neuronal excitability.

What Are the Functions of GABA?

The main functions of GABA encompass inhibition of nerve transmission, regulation of sleep patterns, modulation of circadian rhythm, anti-inflammatory properties, immune system support, appetite control, blood pressure regulation, neurodevelopment, and clinical pertinence as expounded by Creed et al. (2014) in “VTA GABA neurons modulate specific learning behaviors through the control of dopamine and cholinergic systems”:

1: Inhibition of Neuronal Activity

GABA serves as the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter in the CNS, preventing excessive neuronal firing and maintaining the balance necessary for proper brain function. It achieves this by binding to GABA-A and GABA-B receptors, leading to hyperpolarization of neurons.

2: Regulation of Muscle Tone

GABAergic neurons in the spinal cord regulate muscle tone by inhibiting motor neurons, preventing excessive muscle contraction and spasticity, and allowing smooth and coordinated movement.

3: Modulation of Synaptic Plasticity

GABA influences synaptic plasticity, which is crucial for learning and memory. By adjusting the strength of synaptic connections, GABA helps fine-tune neural circuits involved in cognitive processes.

4: Regulation of Anxiety and Stress

GABA’s inhibitory action on neural circuits involved in stress and anxiety reduces overactivity in these pathways, promoting a calming effect that decreases anxiety and enhances emotional stability.

5: Sleep Regulation

GABAergic activity is essential for initiating and maintaining sleep. By inhibiting arousal-promoting regions of the brain, GABA facilitates the transition from wakefulness to sleep and supports the various stages of the sleep cycle.

6: Pain Modulation

GABA modulates pain by inhibiting pain pathways in the spinal cord and brain, contributing to the analgesic effects observed with certain GABAergic medications.

7: Control of Hormonal Release

GABAergic neurons influence the release of various hormones by acting on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, affecting processes such as stress response, reproductive functions, and growth.

8: Impact on Neurodevelopment

During brain development, GABA serves as an excitatory neurotransmitter before transitioning to its inhibitory role. This excitatory action is critical for the proper maturation of neural circuits and the formation of synaptic connections.

9: Influence on Gastrointestinal Function

GABA receptors in the enteric nervous system regulate gastrointestinal motility and secretions, which are essential for maintaining proper digestive function and gut health.

10: Modulation of Sensory Processing

GABAergic inhibition refines sensory processing by regulating the flow of sensory information in the brain, filtering out irrelevant stimuli, and enhancing the perception of important sensory inputs.

11: Regulation of Emotional Responses

GABA helps regulate emotional responses and contributes to mood stabilization by inhibiting overactive neural circuits involved in emotional processing.

12: Involvement in Motor Control

GABAergic neurons in motor control areas of the brain, such as the basal ganglia, are crucial for coordinating movement, ensuring smooth execution of voluntary movements, and preventing involuntary muscle contractions.

13: Cognitive Function

GABA influences cognitive functions such as attention and focus by modulating the activity of neural networks involved in these processes, essential for maintaining cognitive clarity and preventing distractions.

14: Influence on the Immune System

Recent research by Lewis et al. (2021) in “The Brain’s Reward System in Health and Disease” suggests that GABAergic signaling interacts with the immune system, influencing immune responses and inflammation.

15: Modulation of Appetite and Feeding Behavior

GABAergic neurons in the hypothalamus play a role in regulating appetite and feeding behavior, modulating the activity of neural circuits involved in hunger and satiety.

What Is the Role of GABA in Addiction?

The role of GABA in addiction is to facilitate dysregulation that leads to neurotransmission and circuitry imbalances, contributing to brain pathologies. For example, the GABAergic system modulates the mesolimbic dopaminergic reward neurocircuitry, which is closely interconnected with the endogenous opioid and cannabinoid systems.

According to Nutt and Nestor (2018) in “The GABA System and Addiction,” the roles of GABA in addiction include:

1: Primary Function

GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, modulating the brain’s reward system.

2: Pre-addiction Disturbances

Disturbances in the GABA system can precede substance abuse and addiction. GABA’s ability to regulate other neurotransmitter systems, such as dopamine, which are strongly implicated in addiction, is impaired.

3: Addictive Substances and GABA

Many addictive substances, such as alcohol and benzodiazepines, enhance GABA functioning, reinforcing their rewarding effects.

4: Medication Potential

Medications targeting the GABAergic system, such as baclofen, gabapentin, and topiramate, have shown promise in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms in clinical trials for alcohol and other substance use disorders.

5: Interaction with Other Neurotransmitters

GABA interacts with the dopaminergic reward system and other neurotransmitters like opioids and cannabinoids to regulate addiction-related behaviors, including drug-seeking, reinforcement, and motivation.

6: Genetic Associations

Genetic studies have identified associations between specific GABA receptor subunits and addictive behaviors, suggesting that targeting GABA receptor subtypes could lead to more effective addiction treatments.

What Are the Mechanisms of GABA in Substance Use Disorders?

The mechanisms of GABA in substance-use disorders include GABAergic inhibition, GABA receptor plasticity, GABAergic adaptation, GABAergic dysregulation, GABAergic modulation of dopamine, and GABAergic interactions with other neurotransmitters as described by Oukari and Korpi (2024) in “GABAergic mechanisms in alcohol dependence”:

1: GABAergic Inhibition

GABA is the foremost inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, and its dysfunction contributes to the development and maintenance of addiction.

2: GABA Receptor Plasticity

Chronic substance use alters GABA receptor expression and function, affecting the balance of excitation and inhibition in the brain.

3: GABAergic Adaptation

The brain adapts to chronic substance use by modifying the expression and function of GABA receptors, leading to tolerance and dependence.

4: GABAergic Dysregulation

Imbalances in GABAergic neurotransmission contribute to the emergence of addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

5: GABAergic Modulation of Dopamine

GABA regulates dopamine release and activity, which is crucial for the development of addiction.

6: GABAergic Interactions with Other Neurotransmitters

GABA interacts with other neurotransmitters, such as glutamate, dopamine, and serotonin, to regulate addiction-related behaviors.

What are the Effects of Certain Substances on GABA?

The effects of Substance-Specific Effects on GABA are: Alcohol augments GABA-induced chloride influx, reduces GABA-A receptor sensitivity and density, Benzodiazepines act as positive allosteric modulators, accelerate GABA’s binding affinity, leading to receptor desensitization, Barbiturates prolong the opening of chloride channels, result in potent sedative effects, high potential for tolerance and dependence, Opioids inhibit GABA release in brain regions like the VTA, increase dopamine release, reinforce addiction, Cannabinoids modulate GABAergic transmission, affect mood and cognitive functions as explained by Nutt and Nestor (2018) in the research The GABA system and addiction:

Effects of Alcohol on GABA


Alcohol significantly impacts GABAergic neurotransmission. By binding to GABA-A receptors, alcohol enhances GABA-induced chloride influx, resulting in pronounced inhibitory effects. This action accounts for alcohol’s sedative and anxiolytic properties. Chronic alcohol use, however, leads to a reduction in GABA-A receptor sensitivity and density, contributing to tolerance. During withdrawal, diminished GABAergic activity causes symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, and seizures (Addolorato et al., 2011).

Effects of Benzodiazepines on GABA

Benzodiazepines, prescribed for anxiety and insomnia, act as positive allosteric modulators of GABA-A receptors, enhancing GABA’s binding affinity and boosting its inhibitory effects. Long-term use of benzodiazepines results in receptor desensitization and downregulation, leading to tolerance and dependence. Withdrawal symptoms, including heightened anxiety and seizures, arise from the abrupt decrease in GABAergic activity upon cessation of use.

Effects of Barbiturates on GABA

Barbiturates, though less used today, also enhance GABAergic activity by prolonging the opening of chloride channels at GABA-A receptors. Their potent sedative effects and high potential for tolerance and dependence stem from their impact on GABA neurotransmission. Withdrawal from barbiturates is particularly severe, with risks of seizures and delirium due to reduced GABAergic inhibition.

Effects of Opioids and Cannabinoids

Opioids and cannabinoids indirectly influence GABAergic activity. Opioids inhibit GABA release in certain brain regions, such as the ventral tegmental area (VTA), leading to increased dopamine release and reinforcing the addictive potential of opioids. Cannabinoids modulate GABAergic transmission, affecting mood and cognitive functions. These interactions contribute to the complex effects of these substances on the brain and behavior.

What Are the Neuroadaptive Changes in GABAergic Systems?

The  neuroadaptive changes in GABAergic systems are withdrawal and relapse and tolerance and independence as put forth by Shyu et al. (2022) in their review “Quantifying GABA in Addiction: A Review of Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Studies,” the neuroadaptive changes in GABAergic systems include:

1: Tolerance and Dependence

The brain’s attempt to maintain homeostasis in response to persistent GABAergic modulation by addictive substances results in neuroadaptive changes. Chronic exposure leads to alterations in GABA receptor density, subunit composition, and function, contributing to the development of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms.

2: Withdrawal and Relapse

During withdrawal, the reduced sensitivity and availability of GABA receptors result in decreased inhibitory control, leading to the hyperexcitability of neurons. Symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and seizures are common during withdrawal from substances that enhance GABAergic activity. The discomfort and potential dangers associated with withdrawal can drive individuals to relapse, perpetuating the cycle of addiction.

What Is the Treatment for GABA Activity Impairement?

The treatment for GABA Activity Impairment includes pharmacological interventions and behavioral therapies: Benzodiazepines manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms, Gabapentin and baclofen enhance GABAergic transmission, reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, Acamprosate stabilizes chemical signaling in the brain, Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) develops coping strategies, reduces stress and anxiety, and promotes long-term recovery according to Addolorato et al. (2011), in “Novel Therapeutic Strategies for Alcohol and Drug Addiction: Focus on GABA, Ion Channels, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation,” the implications for treatment include pharmacological interventions and behavioral therapies:

1: Pharmacological Interventions

Medications that modulate GABAergic activity are used to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse. For instance:

  • Benzodiazepines are employed in alcohol withdrawal management to mitigate symptoms and prevent seizures.
  • Gabapentin and baclofen, which enhance GABAergic transmission, are explored for their potential to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in various substance use disorders.
  • Acamprosate is used in alcohol dependence treatment to stabilize chemical signaling in the brain, including GABAergic and glutamatergic systems.

2: Behavioral Therapies

Behavioral therapies complement pharmacological interventions by addressing the psychological aspects of addiction. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals develop coping strategies and modify behaviors associated with substance use. By reducing stress and anxiety, these therapies support the restoration of GABAergic balance and promote long-term recovery.

How does GABA influence the risk of relapse in recovering addicts?

Reduced GABAergic activity during withdrawal increases stress and anxiety, heightening the risk of relapse. Stabilizing GABA levels through medication and behavioral therapies can mitigate these symptoms and help prevent relapse.

Are there any natural ways to support GABA levels during addiction recovery?

Reduced GABAergic activity during withdrawal increases stress and anxiety, heightening the risk of relapse. Stabilizing GABA levels through medication and behavioral therapies can mitigate these symptoms and help prevent relapse.

How do genetic differences in GABA receptors affect susceptibility to addiction?

Reduced GABAergic activity during withdrawal increases stress and anxiety, heightening the risk of relapse. Stabilizing GABA levels through medication and behavioral therapies can mitigate these symptoms and help prevent relapse.

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Magnified Health Systems aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.

Picture of This content is verified and moderated by Dr. Brendan Bickley

This content is verified and moderated by Dr. Brendan Bickley

Dr. Bickley graduated from U.C. Irvine with honors: Phi Beta Kappa, Golden Key International Honor Society, Cum Laude. He has been featured on national radio and print media. He is also a frequent lecturer at National Conferences. He holds an A.S. degree in Drug & Alcohol Studies, and two B.A. degrees in Criminology & Psychology, and masters and doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. He is a licensed California Drug & Alcohol Counselor Level II, a licensed Clinical Supervisor and is certified in treating Eating Disorders.

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