Being in love makes lovers feel as if they are drunk, according to a new study that revealed that brain produces a hormone called oxytocin that has many effects similar to alcohol.

Researchers determined that those in love not just experience wow effects of similar to being drunk, but negative effects like provoke aggression, jealousy and arrogance as well. A part of the brain called the hypothalamus produces oxytocin, a hormone required for bonding, falling in love and making friendships.

Efforts were being made by scientists at the University of Birmingham to find out similarities effects of alcohol and to those of oxytocin.

Dr. Ian Mitchell, from the School of Psychology at Birmingham University, said in a press release that the study surprised them by producing results showing incredible similarities between effects of oxytocin and alcohol. Although both the compounds target different receptors within the brain, similar reactions are caused by them.

"These neural circuits control how we perceive stress or anxiety, especially in social situations such as interviews, or perhaps even plucking up the courage to ask somebody on a date. Taking compounds such as oxytocin and alcohol can make these situations seem less daunting", said Dr. Mitchell.

Pro-social behaviors like altruism, generosity and empathy are triggered by oxytocin. The hormone also plays a role in getting rid of social inhibitors like fear, anxiety and stress in a manner akin to alcohol.

This is the reason people usually rely on alcohol on their first dates to overcome their nerves, said Dr. Mitchell.