Which medication is used to treat alcohol abuse as a deterrent by producing unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed?

• A. Disulfiram
• B. Acamprosate
• C. Naltrexone
• D. Buprenorphine

Answer: (A)

Disulfiram works as a deterrent because it blocks the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase. When alcohol is consumed, this causes a buildup of acetaldehyde, leading to flushing, sweating, headache, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, and sometimes faintness. Those unpleasant effects teach the body to avoid drinking, making it a useful part of treatment when paired with counseling and support.

Acamprosate helps reduce cravings and stabilize brain activity during abstinence, not by creating an aversive reaction to alcohol. Naltrexone lowers the rewarding effects of alcohol to help prevent relapse. Buprenorphine is used for opioid use disorder, not alcohol.