Disulfiram

Disulfiram can support alcohol abstinence by making drinking potentially dangerous. Understanding the reaction, agreeing freely to treatment and receiving careful medical review are central to its use.

Disulfiram, also known by the brand name Antabuse, changes how the body breaks down alcohol. Drinking while its effect remains can cause a serious reaction, not just an unpleasant hangover. It is used as a deterrent in some alcohol-abstinence plans; it does not directly remove craving or treat acute alcohol withdrawal. If physical alcohol dependence may be present, get medical advice before suddenly stopping or sharply reducing drinking.

It must never be given secretly or without the person's informed agreement. The prescriber needs to assess health conditions, other medicines and the treatment arrangement. Alcohol in medicines, foods or other products can also matter, so ask a pharmacist or prescriber about the specific products you use.

Reaction risk can continue after tablets have been stopped. Do not test the effect by drinking or decide that a missed tablet makes alcohol safe. Difficulty breathing, chest pain, a seizure, collapse or loss of consciousness after possible alcohol exposure requires emergency medical help. Sudden confusion needs immediate medical help.

Disulfiram can also cause serious liver injury. New yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, or feeling unwell with symptoms suggesting liver injury needs urgent medical attention, with the medicine stopped while suspected injury is assessed. The clinician needs to know that disulfiram is being taken. Do not wait for the next routine review.

Full access is needed to read this Topic's articles.