What is the primary action of disulfiram in alcohol cessation?

Disulfiram's primary action in promoting alcohol cessation is to create a toxic response when alcohol is consumed. This mechanism is known as aversive conditioning. When a person taking disulfiram consumes alcohol, it inhibits the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, which leads to an accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body. This buildup causes unpleasant symptoms such as flushing, headache, nausea, and palpitations. These adverse reactions deter individuals from consuming alcohol, thereby aiding in maintaining sobriety as they become conditioned to associate alcohol with these negative effects.

While disulfiram has effects on cravings for alcohol and may block some effects of alcohol in the body, its most distinctive and direct mechanism of action that supports alcohol cessation is this aversive reaction that occurs upon the intake of alcohol. Other options do not encapsulate the core function of disulfiram as accurately as its ability to produce a toxic reaction when alcohol is ingested.