Ethanol poisoning occurs when the concentration of ethanol in the bloodstream becomes toxic, usually due to excessive consumption of alcohol. This can depress the central nervous system, leading to impaired motor skills, confusion, and in severe cases, respiratory depression and death. Ethanol affects the CNS by enhancing the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and inhibiting the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, leading to its depressant effects.
