Disulfiram blocks which enzyme in the brain?

Prepare for the Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (CARN) Advanced Practice Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Boost your readiness for the exam!

Multiple Choice

Disulfiram blocks which enzyme in the brain?

Explanation:
Disulfiram’s action in the brain targets the enzyme that converts dopamine into norepinephrine. This enzyme, dopamine beta-hydroxylase, sits in the catecholamine synthesis pathway after dopamine is formed; when disulfiram inhibits it, norepinephrine production drops and dopamine levels can rise. That direct inhibition of dopamine beta-hydroxylase explains why this option is correct. Dopamine transporter is a reuptake protein, not inhibited by disulfiram. Monoamine oxidase B degrades monoamines and is not the drug’s target there. Tyrosine hydroxylase is the first step in catecholamine synthesis, and disulfiram does not primarily inhibit that enzyme.

Disulfiram’s action in the brain targets the enzyme that converts dopamine into norepinephrine. This enzyme, dopamine beta-hydroxylase, sits in the catecholamine synthesis pathway after dopamine is formed; when disulfiram inhibits it, norepinephrine production drops and dopamine levels can rise. That direct inhibition of dopamine beta-hydroxylase explains why this option is correct.

Dopamine transporter is a reuptake protein, not inhibited by disulfiram. Monoamine oxidase B degrades monoamines and is not the drug’s target there. Tyrosine hydroxylase is the first step in catecholamine synthesis, and disulfiram does not primarily inhibit that enzyme.

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