• For 24/7 Treatment Help Call

    (800) 526-5053

  • Alcohol and its main ingredient ethanol are classified as depressants. Depressants reduce activity in the central nervous system. Alcohol is a depressant known for causing impairment, reduced motor control, and long-term mental health problems.

    A narcotic can be any substance that dulls the senses, causes sedation, or relieves pain. By this definition, alcohol can also be considered a narcotic.

    However, the term “narcotic” has seen less use by health organizations in recent years because the term is vague. Some experts cannot agree on what counts as a narcotic and what does not.

    The Definition Of Narcotic

    “Narcotic” has had different definitions over the years. One definition is any substance that causes sedation, drowsiness, and pain relief. Alcohol is a narcotic by this definition, but so are morphine, antihistamines, and cocaine.

    Another definition is simply any substance that is limited or controlled by the government. Under this definition, even more, substances can be considered narcotics, including amphetamines and hallucinogens.

    Confusion over what counts as a narcotic under this definition, and what does not, has led to organizations coming up with different categories for these substances. However, “narcotic” may still be used to describe any of these substances, even in medical settings.

    Why Alcohol Could Be A Narcotic

    Alcohol could be considered a narcotic if the definition is any substance that causes: 

    • sedation
    • drowsiness
    • pain relief
    • impairment

    Other well-known substances that fit this definition include benzodiazepines (like Valium, Xanax, and Ativan), opioids, and tobacco.

    Why Alcohol Is Not A Narcotic

    Health organizations like the U.S. DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) use “narcotic” as another word for opioids. Substances that fit this definition include codeine, fentanyl, and oxycodone.

    Alcohol is not an opioid, because it does not come from the opium poppy or give intense pain relief. Alcohol is a depressant, or “downer,” that binds to specific receptors in the brain and slows down activity. Prominent side effects of alcohol consumption include:

    Some of these side effects can also be seen in opioids and opiates. However, opioids affect your nervous system and receptors in a different way than alcohol. Additionally, alcohol and opioids can be fatal when mixed together.

    Substance Abuse Treatment

    There are many forms of substance use, and many of these substances can be harmful to your health. Drinking alcohol can cause long-term damage, including the development of alcohol use disorder.

    Alcohol use disorder and other forms of addiction are treated with a combination of therapy, medication, support groups, and other activities that promote healthy living.

    To find out if an addiction treatment program is right for you, please contact Ark Behavioral Health today.

    Written by Ark Behavioral Health Editorial Team
    ©2024 Ark National Holdings, LLC. | All Rights Reserved.
    This page does not provide medical advice.
    Sources

    Merriam-Webster - Narcotic
    National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism - Alcohol's Effects on the Body
    PubMed Central - IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
    U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration - Drug Fact Sheet: Narcotics - DEA

    Medically Reviewed by
    Manish Mishra, MBBS
    on August 16, 2022
    Questions About Treatment?

    Ark Behavioral Health offers 100% confidential substance abuse assessment and treatment placement tailored to your individual needs. Achieve long-term recovery.

    100% confidential. We respect your privacy.
    Prefer Texting?

    Our friendly support team is here to chat 24/7. Opt out any time.

    chat-header

    Our Facilities

    Premier Drug Rehab & Mental Health Care Facilities In Massachusetts & Ohio

    Bedrock Recovery

    Canton, MA

    • Medical detox
    • Inpatient & Residential Treatment
    • Primary Mental Health Care
    • Movie Theater & Fitness Center

    Learn More

    Northeast Addictions

    Quincy, MA

    • Day treatment program
    • Intensive Outpatient Program
    • Full-Day Group Therapy
    • Easy Access to Public Transit

    Learn More

    Spring Hill Recovery Center

    Ashby, MA

    • Residential Treatment
    • Gender-Specific Residencies
    • Outdoor Recreation
    • Expansive 70-Acre Campus

    Learn More

    Ohio Recovery Center

    Van Wert, OH

    • Medical Detox
    • Residential Treatment
    • Primary Mental Health Care
    • 55-Acre Campus

    Learn More

    For Immediate Treatment Help Call 800-526-5053