What is the pharmacological action of disulfiram (Antabuse) in alcohol treatment?

What is the pharmacological action of disulfiram (Antabuse) in alcohol treatment?

• A. Facilitates opioid withdrawal
• B. Causes adverse effects when alcohol is consumed
• C. Increases alcohol tolerance
• D. Works as a pain reliever

Answer: (B)

Disulfiram, commonly known as Antabuse, functions by causing adverse effects when alcohol is consumed. This action is a result of disulfiram inhibiting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which is necessary for metabolizing ethanol. When a person taking disulfiram drinks alcohol, it leads to the accumulation of acetaldehyde, causing unpleasant effects such as flushing, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, and hypotension. These reactions serve as a deterrent to alcohol consumption, thereby supporting individuals in their recovery from alcohol dependency. The other pharmacological actions mentioned do not apply to disulfiram. It does not facilitate opioid withdrawal, increase alcohol tolerance, or function as a pain reliever. Instead, its unique mechanism is designed specifically to support alcohol abstinence by creating a negative reinforcement for drinking alcohol.

Disulfiram, commonly known as Antabuse, functions by causing adverse effects when alcohol is consumed. This action is a result of disulfiram inhibiting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which is necessary for metabolizing ethanol. When a person taking disulfiram drinks alcohol, it leads to the accumulation of acetaldehyde, causing unpleasant effects such as flushing, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, and hypotension. These reactions serve as a deterrent to alcohol consumption, thereby supporting individuals in their recovery from alcohol dependency.

The other pharmacological actions mentioned do not apply to disulfiram. It does not facilitate opioid withdrawal, increase alcohol tolerance, or function as a pain reliever. Instead, its unique mechanism is designed specifically to support alcohol abstinence by creating a negative reinforcement for drinking alcohol.