Final answer:
Disulfiram (Antabuse) works by inhibiting the breakdown of acetaldehyde, resulting in unpleasant symptoms when alcohol is consumed. Patient education should focus on abstaining from alcohol and being aware of potential symptoms if alcohol is consumed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Disulfiram, commonly known as Antabuse, works by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, which is responsible for breaking down acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism. By preventing the breakdown of acetaldehyde, Disulfiram causes its accumulation in the body, leading to unpleasant symptoms such as flushing, nausea, dizziness, sweating, headache, and low blood pressure when alcohol is consumed.
For patient education, it is important to emphasize the need to completely abstain from alcohol while taking Disulfiram. This includes avoiding alcohol-containing products as consuming any amount of alcohol can result in a severe reaction. Patients should be informed about the potential symptoms they may experience if they consume alcohol while taking Disulfiram, and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.