Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is defined by the excessive use of this drug despite a negative impact on the individual’s life. The current medications to treat AUD have limited efficacy and several side effects. One target for novel therapeutics is nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Data from both genetic and pharmacology studies provide evidence that nAChRs modulate alcohol intake. Interestingly, the reviewed literature demonstrates that pharmacological modulation of all nAChR subtypes examined can decrease alcohol consumption.