Antabuse like effect caused by the oral hypoglycemic drug –
**Core Concept**
Disulfiram, also known as Antabuse, is a medication used in the treatment of chronic alcoholism by producing an acute sensitivity to ethanol. This is achieved by inhibiting aldehyde dehydrogenase, an enzyme involved in alcohol metabolism. Oral hypoglycemic drugs that cause an Antabuse-like effect share a similar mechanism of action.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is a medication that inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, thereby causing an accumulation of acetaldehyde when alcohol is consumed. This leads to the adverse effects associated with Antabuse, such as flushing, nausea, and vomiting. The enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase is crucial in the metabolism of alcohol, and its inhibition results in the accumulation of toxic acetaldehyde metabolites.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not inhibit aldehyde dehydrogenase. Instead, it works through a different mechanism, such as stimulating insulin release or increasing glucose uptake in cells.
**Option B:** This option is also incorrect because it does not have an Antabuse-like effect. It is a medication that works through a different mechanism, such as decreasing glucose production in the liver.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is a medication that does not inhibit aldehyde dehydrogenase. Instead, it works by increasing the release of insulin from the pancreas.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that medications with Antabuse-like effects can cause severe reactions when combined with alcohol. Always ask patients about their alcohol consumption history and potential interactions with medications that may cause such reactions.
**Correct Answer:** C.