Pharmacological blockade of corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1 (CRH1R) reduces voluntary consumption of high alcohol concentrations in non-dependent Wistar rats

► Intermittent access to 20% and 10% alcohol produces escalation of drinking. ► Escalation in alcohol intake is not associated with a dependence-like state. ► CRH system may modulate consumption in non-dependent subjects. ► Stress system may be engaged during the transition to dependence.