Disulfiram for Alcohol Misuse & Addiction 

Disulfiram, previously sold under the brand name Antabuse, is one of the 3 FDA-approved medications that may be used in alcohol addiction treatment.^{1, 2}

This article will answer the question, how does disulfiram work, explain the benefits and potential side effects of disulfiram, and help you find effective treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) near you. 

What Is Disulfiram? 

Disulfiram for alcohol addiction is a medication that functions as an alcohol deterrent, as it causes a very unpleasant reaction when alcohol is present in the body. This may help certain people avoid alcohol and maintain abstinence, generally those who have completed a detox program for alcohol addiction or have already achieved a certain period of abstinence.³

It is typically most effective when used as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan for AUD that also includes interventions like behavioral therapies and counseling.⁴ People usually take disulfiram tablets once a day in the morning.⁴ 

Disulfiram is not considered to have addictive properties and can safely be used under the direction of a qualified medical practitioner.⁵ 

People who take disulfiram for alcohol use disorder should not drink alcohol at all and should avoid any alcohol-containing products, such as rubbing alcohol, aftershave, certain mouthwashes, perfumes, hand sanitizers, and some hair sprays.⁴ It should not be taken until at least 12 hours after a person’s last drink.⁴

This is because it causes a highly unpleasant reaction with alcohol and alcohol-containing products that can make a person feel extremely ill, which is also why it may help some people abstain from drinking.⁴

How Does Disulfiram Work?

Disulfiram is an addiction treatment medication used to treat AUD that causes adverse reactions if a person consumes alcohol.¹ The disulfiram mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it mainly works by interfering with alcohol metabolism.¹ 

When someone drinks alcohol, disulfiram blocks aldehyde dehydrogenase, which results in excess acetaldehyde, a toxic compound.^{1, 4} This leads to what is known as the disulfiram-alcohol reaction, which is characterized by severe and unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, flushing, and extreme discomfort.^{1, 4} Knowing that a person will experience these symptoms can serve as a deterrent to alcohol use.⁴ 

Disulfiram can be effective for people who are motivated to maintain sobriety, especially when used as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that involves behavioral therapy, counseling, and ongoing support.⁴ 

Some people in recovery may also benefit from taking it in the short-term, such as if they expect to be in a situation that may trigger cravings for alcohol, like vacations, parties, weddings or holidays, and want to use it in these situations to maintain abstinence.¹

Side Effects of Disulfiram

People can experience side effects when they take disulfiram, as with any medication. The most common disulfiram side effects include:⁴

• Drowsiness. 
• Headache. 
• Fatigue. 
• Acne eruptions. 
• A metallic aftertaste. 

If you currently take or are interested in taking disulfiram and are concerned about side effects, it’s advisable to consult your physician. 

How Long Does Disulfiram Stay in your System?

Disulfiram works quickly, and reactions can occur for 30–60 minutes in mild cases, or longer, for several hours or until alcohol is metabolized, in more severe cases.¹

There is no disulfiram withdrawal syndrome, but it can stay in your system for up to 2 weeks after you’ve stopped taking the medication.⁶ People can, therefore, continue to experience uncomfortable symptoms for up to 2 weeks if they drink alcohol during this time.⁶ 

Treatment with disulfiram can last for as long as a person receives a benefit from taking it, or for as long as it takes for them to attain long-term sobriety.⁶ As mentioned above, people can also use it on an as-needed basis to help them deal with high-risk situations.¹

Is Disulfiram Effective for Alcohol Misuse

Research indicates that disulfiram may reduce heavy drinking days, decrease overall alcohol consumption, and improve the likelihood of sustained abstinence, especially when used as a component of a comprehensive, holistic addiction treatment program that addresses all of a person’s unique needs.^{1, 3, 7}

As disulfiram can discourage people from drinking alcohol, it may make it easier for them to maintain sobriety and engage in therapies and other interventions that are designed to address underlying issues that are caused by and associated with AUD.⁴ Treatment for AUD can vary by a person’s individual needs and goals, but generally includes a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, counseling, and support.⁷

Alcohol Addiction Treatment in RI or MA

AdCare Rhode Island and Massachusetts both offer expert treatment for AUD that includes medications and evidence-based therapies to help you start the path to recovery. If you or a loved one are struggling with AUD, there is hope, and we are standing by 24/7 to help you.

Please call us at to speak to a compassionate admissions navigator to learn more about your rehab payment options, quickly verify your insurance coverage for addiction treatment, and begin the rehab admissions process.

You can also start online by completing our now.