Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Practice Exam

The medication that is used to treat alcoholism by inducing unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed is Antabuse, also known by its generic name disulfiram. Antabuse works by inhibiting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which is involved in the metabolism of alcohol. When a person takes Antabuse and then consumes alcohol, the process of breaking down alcohol is impaired, leading to a buildup of acetaldehyde. This buildup causes uncomfortable and potentially severe reactions such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, and palpitations. This aversive reaction serves as a deterrent to drinking, making it a useful option in the treatment of alcohol use disorder. Other medications mentioned, such as Clozaril, Effexor, and Topamax, have different uses and mechanisms. Clozaril is primarily used for schizophrenia, Effexor is an antidepressant used for depression and anxiety disorders, and Topamax is anticonvulsant that may be used for mood stabilization, but not specifically for creating an aversive reaction to alcohol. Hence, they do not serve the same purpose as Antabuse in the treatment of alcoholism.