Disulfiram effect
Background
- Disulfiram (Trade names: Antabuse, Antabus) - causes an acute reaction in the presence of ethanol.
- Works by inhibiting acetaldehyde dehydrogenase → buildup of acetaldehyde → unpleasant effects.
- Designed to assist in alcohol cessation.
Disulfiram-like Reaction
- Certain other medications cause acute ethanol intolerance and similar effects as disulfiram[1]
- Mechanism is thought to be the same (i.e. buildup of acetaldehyde)
- Examples
- Antibiotics (metronidazole, certain cephalosporins, chloramphenicol, furazolidone)
- Antifungals (Griseofulvin)
- Quinacrine
Clinical Features
- Nausea/vomiting
- Headache
- Visual changes
- Flushing
Differential Diagnosis
Diagnosis
- Clinical diagnosis
Management
- Supportive care
Disposition
- Discharge
See Also
References
- ↑ Karamanakos PN, Pappas P, Boumba VA, et al. Pharmaceutical agents known to produce disulfiram-like reaction: effects on hepatic ethanol metabolism and brain monoamines. Int J Toxicol. 2007 Sep-Oct;26(5):423-32.