University Chemistry ›› 2025, Vol. 40 ›› Issue (4): 322-325.doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202406016

Special Issue:

• Science Education • Previous Articles     Next Articles

One Drink, Two Tears in the Central Nervous System: The Perils of Disulfiram-Like Reactions

Yiming Liang, Ziyan Pan, Kin Shing Chan   

  1. 1 Anbang Academy, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China;
    2 School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
  • Received:2024-06-11 Accepted:2024-07-02 Published:2025-04-25
  • Contact: Kin Shing Chan E-mail:kschan@nju.edu.cn

Abstract: In the “human body” factory, the director of the hepatocyte workshop, nicknamed “Xiaodeng”, manages ethanol metabolism to maintain stability. However, with the onset of diseases like diabetes and insomnia, the central nervous system introduces foreign aids such as sedatives and antihypertensive drugs. Xiaodeng inadvertently overlooks the potential disulfiram-like reaction between medications and aldehyde dehydrogenase. In an unfortunate incident, a conflict between cephalosporin drugs and ethanol metabolism inhibits acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, leading to acetaldehyde accumulation and ensuing chaos. Recognizing the oversight, Xiaodeng strengthens safety measures and instructs workers to exercise caution when using medications. Although the crisis is contained, this experience underscores the hepatocytes’ enhanced sense of responsibility and mission. We should learn from this and prioritize life, avoiding unnecessary risks such as excessive alcohol consumption. Let us unite in safeguarding this miraculous factory to ensure its safety and prosperity.

Key words: Disulfiram-like reaction, Alcohol metabolism, Drug-alcohol interactions