Chapter 11: Problem 8
Acetaminophen, an analgesic and antipyretic, is available alone or as a component of many nonprescription medications. Acetaminophen overdose, which can lead to liver damage, is a significant health problem. Consumption of alcoholic beverages can exacerbate the problem, especially if the acetaminophen is taken several hours postalcohol intake. Acetaminophen, in normal doses, is nontoxic because it is metabolized using normal mechanisms for increasing water solubility. Alcohol is both an inducer and substrate for CYP2E1. Alcohol taken at the same time as acetaminophen may protect the liver from injury. Which of the following is correct? A. CYP2E1 metabolizes alcohol but not acetaminophen. B. CYP2E1 is increased and converts acetaminophen to a nontoxic form. C. Taken at the same time, alcohol and acetaminophen compete for CYP2E1 so less toxic metabolite is formed. D. With the longer time gap, only alcohol reacts with CPY2E1. E. None of the above.