What is the primary action of disulfiram (Antabuse)?

Disulfiram, also known by its brand name Antabuse, primarily functions by inhibiting the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase. This inhibition leads to an accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body when an individual consumes alcohol. Acetaldehyde is a toxic byproduct of ethanol metabolism that causes unpleasant reactions, such as flushing, nausea, and palpitations, which are part of the discomfort experienced during a disulfiram-alcohol interaction.

This unpleasant experience serves as a deterrent for individuals attempting to abstain from alcohol consumption, effectively helping them avoid drinking. By targeting aldehyde dehydrogenase, disulfiram disrupts the normal metabolic pathway for alcohol, reinforcing sobriety through its adverse effects when alcohol is ingested.

Other options don't accurately describe the primary action of disulfiram. Acetaldehyde generation is a consequence of disulfiram's action rather than its primary mechanism. Alcohol absorption enhancement and caffeine metabolism disruption are unrelated to disulfiram's intended purpose in the context of treating alcohol use disorder. Hence, the correct understanding of disulfiram’s action is centered on its effect of inhibiting aldehyde dehydrogenase, which is crucial for its role in encouraging abstinence from alcohol.