Methanol (CH₃OH) is a toxic substance that can lead to blindness or death if ingested. It is metabolized in the liver by the same enzyme that metabolizes ethanol. The toxic metabolites of methanol are formaldehyde (HCHO) and formic acid (HCOOH). The administration of an intravenous ethanol solution is used as a treatment for methanol poisoning. How could this method help in preventing the toxic effects of methanol ingestion?

• A. Ethanol neutralizes the toxic effects of methanol by forming a non-toxic compound.
• B. Ethanol competitively inhibits the enzyme that metabolizes methanol, slowing the production of toxic metabolites.
• C. Ethanol stimulates the liver to produce enzymes that can safely break down methanol.
• D. Ethanol increases the rate of methanol excretion through the kidneys, removing it before it can be metabolized.

Answer: (B)