Many people use NAC or N-acetylecysteine , which comes from the amino acid l-cysteine, to prevent hangover. As far as I know, NAC helps breakdown of acetaldehyde. Here is a study that shows NAC can reduce the ethanol induced damage in mice only when taken prior to drinking , but if it is taken after taking alcohol, it does the opposite
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16439183
However I didn't knew that alcohol activates opioid receptors too. This is something totally new to me.
Will take a look at that study too. Thanks for reading.