What type of kinetics applies for alcohol in the body? Also, explain the clinical significance of this.

Since alcohol is a lipophilic substance, it absorbs and distributes quickly. Alcohol suppresses the central nervous system. In 30 minutes, a person who consumes alcohol while fasting reaches peak levels. Women hit peaks faster than men because they have fewer body fluids. Metabolism of alcohol occurs 90% in the liver and the rest in the lungs and urine. Adults metabolize 7 - 10 g/h

Give a brief summary of the metabolic pathways of ethanol metabolism.

Metabolism of ethanol takes place in 2 enzyme systems:

1. Alcohol dehydrogenase: low and moderate amount. Limited amount of NAD (coenzyme): zero-order kinetics (7 - 10 g / h)

2. MEOS = Microsomal ethanol oxidase system (mixed function oxidases) higher concentrations (> 100mg / dL). MEOS activity increases with chronic use, can be induced and is partly responsible for tolerance.

Which drugs can affect this metabolism and what are the effects thereof?

Disulfiram, Metronidazole, Cephalosporins and Hypoglycemic drugs. The medications inhibit the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, preventing acetaldehyde from being metabolized, resulting in nausea, headaches, and dizziness.