What is the mechanism by which disulfiram is thought to treat cocaine addiction?

Label:chem

Topic
Disulfiram inhibits dopamine β-hydroxylase (DBH).
Answer
Disulfiram is known to inhibit dopamine β-hydroxylase (DBH), the enzyme responsible for converting dopamine to norepinephrine. Blocking this enzyme causes an accumulation of dopamine within the central nervous system, which is thought to correct the dopamine "deficit" found in patients with cocaine use disorder. This disulfiram-induced dopamine release in chronic cocaine users is believed to incite undesirable effects with cocaine use, such as anxiety, depression, and paranoia, which is thought to decrease cravings and increase abstinence from cocaine use.
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