Disulfiram (Antabuse) acts by...

• A. Increases acetaldehyde concentration to produce nausea and flushing
• B. Blocks dopamine receptors
• C. Inhibits GABA synthesis
• D. Decreases serotonin levels

Answer: (A)

Disulfiram works by inhibiting the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase. This stops the conversion of acetaldehyde to acetic acid, so when alcohol is consumed acetaldehyde accumulates. The buildup causes unpleasant effects such as facial flushing, tachycardia, nausea, vomiting, sweating, headache, and dizziness, which creates an aversive reaction to drinking and helps support abstinence when used with motivation and supervision. This mechanism is specific to aldehyde dehydrogenase inhibition and is not about blocking dopamine receptors, inhibiting GABA synthesis, or decreasing serotonin levels. Also note that even small amounts of alcohol in products like mouthwash or cough syrups can trigger a reaction, so avoidance of all alcohol-containing substances is important while on this therapy.