An experimental drug that blocks the euphoric feelings associated with drinking may prevent alcoholics from relapsing

some people's brains become sensitized as a result of chronic exposure to alcohol. This change in the brain does not subside after people quit drinking. So when they begin consuming alcohol again, "they get a bigger jolt

Alcohol consumption causes the body to release a substance known as "corticotrophin-releasing factor" or CRF. It activates receptors in the brain

a brain receptor called CRF1 appears to be involved in this heightened pleasure sensation

took normal mice with the CRF1 receptor and exposed them to chronic doses of alcohol. Before testing for the euphoric response, the researchers gave the mice an experimental drug called CP 154,526

which prevents CRF from reaching the brain receptor. This group of mice also did not experience the heightened reaction.

particularly applicable to stress-induced relapse

CRF1 receptor also triggers the body's response to stress