Blog #6 (SU 3.3)

• What are the possible mechanisms involved in the occurrence of tolerance to chronic alcohol intake?

Tolerance originated because of the toxic effects of chronic alcohol use. The central nervous system adjusts to the effects of the alcohol and metabolism is induced, so there is a higher rate of metabolism taking place so the effects of the alcohol decrease and are short lived thus tolerance is created.

 

• What are the toxic effects of chronic alcohol consumption on the liver and hepatic metabolism?

Toxic effects of chronic alcohol use on the liver are progressive decrease in liver function, symptoms of hepatitis and liver cirrhosis present and liver cells harden. Toxic effects of chronic alcohol use on hepatic metabolism are suppression of gluconeogenesis leading to hypoglycaemia, fat accumulation and nutrient deficiencies and an increase in activity of liver microsomal enzymes leading to induction of metabolism and an increase in metabolism rate.

These effects are worse in women than in men.

 

• What is Wernicke-Korsakoff-syndrome and how is it treated?

Wernicke-Korsakoff-syndrome is a brain disorder caused by lack of vitamin B1 or thiamine. Wernicke-Korsakoff-syndrome is treated by administering thiamine (Vit B1) to the patient.

 

• Fully explain the foetal alcohol syndrome.

Foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) occurs when there is alcohol use ither acute or chronic during pregnancy. The use of alcohol during pregnancy causes teratogenic effects. When there is alcohol use especially in the first trimester signs like growth deficiencies, mental retardation, microcephaly and underdevelopment of the middle facial area are often seen.

 

• How do the pharmacokinetic interactions of acute alcohol consumption differ from that of chronic alcohol consumption?

Pharmacokinetic interactions of acute alcohol consumption are decreased metabolism of certain drugs like phenothiazines, tricyclic antidepressants and sedative hypnotics.

Pharmacokinetic interactions of chronic alcohol consumption are increased transformation of other drugs, especially paracetamol. Paracetamol and chronic alcohol use cause hepatic toxicity of paracetamol’s metabolite.

 

• Name 4 drug interactions with alcohol where the pharmacological effects of the other drugs are potentiated by alcohol.

1. Alcohol has additive central nervous system suppressant effects. Alcohol has a drug interaction with other central nervous system suppressant drugs.
2. Alcohol has a drug interaction with vasodilators. Alcohol potentiates the effects of vasodilators causing over vasodilation. Drug interaction with blood pressure controlling drugs.
3. Alcohol has a drug interaction with hypoglycaemic drugs. Alcohol decreases the effects of the hypoglycaemic drugs so correction will not take place.
4. Alcohol has a drug interaction with aspirin. Alcohol increases antiplatelet aggregation of aspirin so increased bleeding problems will occur if used in combination.

 

Reference list

Brand, L. 2021. SU 3 Alcohols. https://efundi.nwu.ac.za/access/lessonbuilder/item/5557061/group/dd46f2da-d3be-402e-9ba7-2c5955cedd9d/English%20power%20point/English%20PP%202021/SU%203.pdf Date of access: 3 Mar. 2021. [PowerPoint presentation]