Disulfiram
Disulfiram is a medication used to support alcohol dependence treatment by creating an aversion to alcohol consumption. When alcohol is ingested while taking disulfiram, it blocks the breakdown of alcohol, causing unpleasant effects like nausea, flushing, and rapid heartbeat that discourage further drinking.
Disulfiram treats alcohol dependence by causing adverse reactions when alcohol is consumed, helping patients maintain abstinence.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N07BB01
- RxNorm
- 3554
- Generic
- Disulfiram
- Class
- atc-n07
- Brands
- Antabuse
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Disulfiram is primarily used to treat chronic alcoholism and alcohol use disorder. It is prescribed to help individuals who have already stopped drinking maintain sobriety by creating a deterrent effect if they consume alcohol.
Disulfiram inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down alcohol in the body. When alcohol is consumed, acetaldehyde accumulates, causing uncomfortable symptoms that act as a deterrent to drinking.
Patients must be fully informed and consent to treatment, as disulfiram will cause severe reactions with any alcohol exposure including hidden sources in foods, medications, and colognes. It should only be started after a period of alcohol abstinence. Close medical supervision is recommended, and the drug may interact with other medications.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy