QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
No, this is not the correct mechanism of action. Disulfiram works by inhibiting aldehyde dehydrogenase leading to the build-up of acetaldehyde, leading to unpleasant physical symptoms associated with alcohol consumption. By contrast, acamprosate is another medication used to treat alcohol dependence that works by stabilising NMDA and GABA receptors, that are otherwise disrupted during periods of acute alcohol withdrawal.
10007873
d
NMDA receptor antagonist
QuestionChoice
No, this is not the correct mechanism of action. Disulfiram works by inhibiting aldehyde dehydrogenase leading to the build up of acetaldehyde, leading to unpleasant physical symptoms associated with alcohol consumption. By contrast, Acamprosate is another medication used to treat alcohol dependence that works by stabilising NMDA and GABA receptors, that are otherwise disrupted during periods of acute alcohol withdrawal.
10007874
e
GABA receptor agonist
QuestionChoice
Yes, this is the correct mechanism of action. The acetaldehyde build-up causes the patient to feel a number of unpleasant side effects, similar to a hangover, including nausea and a headache. This acts as negative reinforcement, to make the prospect of consuming alcohol less appealing so the patient is better able to abstain.
10007870
a
Inhibition of aldehyde dehydrogenase leading to the build up of acetaldehyde
QuestionChoice
No, this is not the correct mechanism of action. Disulfiram works by inhibiting aldehyde dehydrogenase leading to the build up of acetaldehyde, leading to unpleasant physical symptoms associated with alcohol consumption.
10007872
c
Inhibition of aldehyde dehydrogenase leading to the build up of acetate
QuestionChoice
No, this is not the correct mechanism of action. Disulfiram leads to a build up of acetaldehyde, leading to unpleasant physical side effects and making the experience of consuming alcohol less desirable.
10007871
b
Inhibition of alcohol dehydrogenase leading to reduced levels of acetaldehyde
Concept
Chapter
2693
4626
Chronic alcoholism
Topic
136
Gastroenterology
14121
A 40-year-old man presents to the GP with severe jaundice and an enlarged abdomen. On examination he tests positive for a 'hepatic flap'.


A set of liver function tests (LFTs) are requested:


||||
|--------------|:-------:|---------------|
|Bilirubin|97 µmol/L|< 17|
|Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)|678 IU/L|10 - 50|
|Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)|89 IU/L|25 - 115|

On questioning, the patient reports that he drinks around 40 units of alcohol a week for the past 15 years.


In view of their concerns about the patient's alcohol consumption, the GP discusses the possibility of reducing his alcohol dependence by prescribing **disulfiram**.


Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of disulfiram?
a