Which medication is commonly prescribed to assist with alcohol dependence?

• A. Naltrexone
• B. Disulfiram
• C. Buprenorphine
• D. Varenicline

Answer: (B)

Disulfiram is a medication frequently prescribed to assist individuals with alcohol dependence. It functions by inhibiting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which leads to unpleasant reactions when alcohol is consumed. These reactions can include flushing, nausea, vomiting, and palpitations, effectively creating a deterrent for drinking alcohol. This behavioral deterrent helps individuals maintain sobriety by associating alcohol intake with adverse physical effects.

In contrast, other medications listed serve different purposes; for example, naltrexone is used to reduce cravings and minimize the pleasurable effects of alcohol but does not act as a deterrent. Buprenorphine is mainly used for opioid addiction treatment, while varenicline is designed to help with smoking cessation. Thus, disulfiram is the appropriate choice for supporting abstinence in individuals with alcohol use disorder due to its specific mechanism that promotes avoidance of alcohol consumption.