Acetaldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitor

Acetaldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitors are a class of drugs that inhibit the action of enzymes known as acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. This enzyme is primarily responsible for the breakdown of acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism. By inhibiting this enzyme, these drugs increase the concentration of acetaldehyde in the body, leading to unpleasant effects such as nausea and flushing, which can deter individuals from consuming alcohol.

Mechanism of Action

Acetaldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitors work by binding to the active site of the acetaldehyde dehydrogenase enzyme, preventing it from interacting with its substrate, acetaldehyde. This results in an accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body, which produces unpleasant symptoms such as flushing, nausea, and rapid heartbeat. These symptoms are intended to deter individuals from consuming alcohol.

Uses

The primary use of acetaldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitors is in the treatment of alcoholism. The most well-known drug in this class is disulfiram, which is used as part of a comprehensive treatment program for alcohol dependence. When a person taking disulfiram consumes alcohol, they experience a severe and immediate sensitivity to the alcohol, leading to unpleasant symptoms. This reaction is intended to deter the individual from further alcohol consumption.

Side Effects

The side effects of acetaldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitors are largely related to their mechanism of action. When a person taking one of these drugs consumes alcohol, they may experience symptoms such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, and rapid heartbeat. In some cases, more severe reactions can occur, including difficulty breathing, chest pain, and even loss of consciousness.

See Also

• Alcohol dehydrogenase
• Alcohol metabolism
• Disulfiram