If a person on Antabuse ingests alcohol, which of the following symptoms may occur?

• A. Headaches and dizziness
• B. Nausea and vomiting
• C. Intense euphoria
• D. Fatigue and confusion

Answer: (B)

When a person taking Antabuse (disulfiram) ingests alcohol, one of the primary and most well-known symptoms that may occur is nausea and vomiting. This reaction is part of a larger set of unpleasant responses that the medication is designed to trigger when alcohol is consumed. Antabuse works by inhibiting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which leads to the accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body when alcohol is consumed. This accumulation causes various adverse reactions, often referred to as the "disulfiram-alcohol reaction," which can include nausea, vomiting, flushing, palpitations, and even more severe symptoms in some cases.

The nausea and vomiting serve as a deterrent for individuals trying to abstain from alcohol, reinforcing the negative consequences of drinking while on the medication and promoting long-term sobriety. It is critical for patients on Antabuse to understand the significant risks associated with alcohol consumption while taking the medication to ensure their safety and adherence to treatment.