Quitting alcohol changes the brain and can increase the risk of compulsive drinking – new research in mice

Activity in certain areas of the brain may drive alcohol cravings. Yana Iskayeva/Moment via Getty Images For some, abstaining from alcohol can subsequently increase compulsive drinking. Our research team found that, in abstaining mice, this urge to drink is preceded by changes in the activity of a particular brain region, pointing to potential new screening opportunities to identify and help those most vulnerable to relapse. Although alcohol abstinence is associated with improved health…