Music Enhances Drunkenness: A Phenomenon Related to Increased Dopaminergic Function

Objective: Since ancient times, music has been enjoyed in combination with alcohol or to aid the sick. Why do people desire music for pleasure and cure? The effect of music was investigated by examining how music influences the effects of ethanol on brain function. Methods: Male ddY mice were placed in a closed cage equipped with a speaker, and music (Mozart, Adagio from Divertimento, K. 205; average sound level=65 dB) was played repeatedly for 0.5 to 6 h. Immediately after music exposure, ethanol-induced sleep time was analyzed. Results: Ethanol-induced sleep time was prolonged by exposure to music, and the effect was abolished upon inhibition of calcium/calmodulin-dependent dopamine synthesis in the brain. Conclusion: The present study indicates that music leads to an increase in synthesis of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, and the subsequent increase in dopamine enhances the effects of alcohol. Music might regulate and/or affect various brain functions through dopaminergic neurotransmission. Thus, music might attenuate symptoms of various diseases that involve dopamine dysfunction, such as Parkinson s disease, senile dementia, epilepsy, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.