Alcohol is a _________.

Alcohol is classified as a depressant. Depressants are substances that slow down the central nervous system's activity, resulting in a decrease in brain function and overall body activity. Alcohol acts as a depressant by affecting various neurotransmitters in the brain, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has a calming and inhibitory effect.
While alcohol may initially create feelings of relaxation and euphoria, it ultimately depresses the central nervous system, leading to a range of effects such as decreased coordination, impaired judgment, slowed reaction times, and sedation. It can also cause drowsiness and in higher amounts, even unconsciousness or respiratory depression.