Disulfiram reduces alcoholism by acute ethanol sensitivity. Which option correctly reflects this mechanism in a simple form?

Disulfiram reduces alcoholism by acute ethanol sensitivity. Which option correctly reflects this mechanism in a simple form?

• A. Naltrexone
• B. Acamprosate
• C. Disulfiram
• D. Methadone

Answer: (C)

Disulfiram works by creating an aversive reaction to drinking. It inhibits the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, so when alcohol is consumed acetaldehyde rapidly builds up. That buildup triggers unpleasant effects—flushing, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and sometimes low blood pressure—making alcohol use uncomfortably intolerable. This simple deterrent mechanism aims to promote abstinence. Other options act through different pathways: naltrexone reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol by blocking opioid receptors, acamprosate helps stabilize drinking behavior by modulating glutamatergic activity, and methadone is an opioid agonist used for opioid dependence, not alcohol.

Disulfiram works by creating an aversive reaction to drinking. It inhibits the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, so when alcohol is consumed acetaldehyde rapidly builds up. That buildup triggers unpleasant effects—flushing, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and sometimes low blood pressure—making alcohol use uncomfortably intolerable. This simple deterrent mechanism aims to promote abstinence. Other options act through different pathways: naltrexone reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol by blocking opioid receptors, acamprosate helps stabilize drinking behavior by modulating glutamatergic activity, and methadone is an opioid agonist used for opioid dependence, not alcohol.