Final answer:
Disulfiram (Antabuse) inhibits the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, causing an accumulation of acetaldehyde and unpleasant symptoms when alcohol is consumed. It also competitively inhibits alcohol dehydrogenase, preventing the conversion of methanol to formaldehyde in cases of poisoning.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mechanism of action (MOA) of disulfiram (Antabuse) involves inhibiting the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, which is responsible for converting acetaldehyde into acetic acid. By blocking this enzyme, disulfiram causes acetaldehyde to accumulate in the body, leading to unpleasant symptoms such as flushing, nausea, dizziness, sweating, headache, and low blood pressure when alcohol is consumed. This deterrent effect is used as a treatment for alcohol dependence, as it creates an aversive reaction to alcohol consumption.
In addition to its effects on aldehyde dehydrogenase, disulfiram also inhibits the oxidation of methanol to formaldehyde by competitively binding to alcohol dehydrogenase. This property is important in cases of methanol poisoning, where disulfiram can be used as an antidote to prevent the conversion of methanol to the toxic formaldehyde compound.