Induction of Liver Acetaldehyde Dehydrogenase: Possible Role in Ethanol Tolerance after Exposure to Barbiturates

Abstract
Mice were injected twice a day for 4 days with saline or phenobarbital or ethanol. Treatment with phenobarbital, but not ethanol, increased the amount of liver acetaldehyde dehydrogenase activity. More rapid removal of acetaldehyde, which is a toxic metabolic intermediate of ethanol, may contribute to the alcohol tolerance exhibited by persons who use barbiturates regularly.