Disulfiram mechanism of action ?
**Core Concept**
Disulfiram is a medication used in the management of chronic alcoholism by producing an acute sensitivity to ethanol (drinking alcohol). Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of aldehyde dehydrogenase, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of ethanol metabolism.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Disulfiram works by inhibiting aldehyde dehydrogenase, leading to an accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body. This causes a range of uncomfortable and unpleasant symptoms, including facial flushing, sweating, nausea, and vomiting, when ethanol is consumed. The inhibition of aldehyde dehydrogenase is due to the binding of disulfiram to the zinc ion at the active site of the enzyme, which is essential for its catalytic activity.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is likely to be incorrect, as disulfiram does not primarily act by inhibiting cytochrome P450 enzymes.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect, as disulfiram does not primarily act by increasing the activity of GABA receptors.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect, as disulfiram does not primarily act by blocking the action of dopamine.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key side effect of disulfiram is the induction of a "disulfiram-alcohol reaction," which can be severe and even life-threatening in some cases. This reaction is characterized by symptoms such as facial flushing, sweating, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, respiratory depression and cardiac arrhythmias.
**Correct Answer:** C. Disulfiram inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, leading to the accumulation of acetaldehyde and an unpleasant reaction when ethanol is consumed.