Disulfiram (Antabuse) is used to treat

Disulfiram (Antabuse) is used to treat

• A. A medication used to treat alcohol abuse
• B. A medication used to treat anxiety
• C. A medication used to treat depression
• D. A medication used to treat diabetes

Answer: (A)

Disulfiram is used as an aversive treatment for alcohol use disorder. It works by blocking the liver enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase. If a person taking disulfiram drinks alcohol, acetaldehyde builds up quickly, producing a nasty reaction—facial flushing, sweating, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, and sometimes dizziness or faintness. The idea is to create a strong negative consequence that discourages drinking, helping the individual stay abstinent when used as part of a broader treatment plan with counseling and support. It’s not used for anxiety, depression, or diabetes; those conditions are treated with other medications. Because the reaction can be severe, adherence and avoiding any alcohol-containing products (including certain mouthwashes, sauces, or medications) are essential, and liver function should be monitored due to potential toxicity.

Disulfiram is used as an aversive treatment for alcohol use disorder. It works by blocking the liver enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase. If a person taking disulfiram drinks alcohol, acetaldehyde builds up quickly, producing a nasty reaction—facial flushing, sweating, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, and sometimes dizziness or faintness. The idea is to create a strong negative consequence that discourages drinking, helping the individual stay abstinent when used as part of a broader treatment plan with counseling and support.

It’s not used for anxiety, depression, or diabetes; those conditions are treated with other medications. Because the reaction can be severe, adherence and avoiding any alcohol-containing products (including certain mouthwashes, sauces, or medications) are essential, and liver function should be monitored due to potential toxicity.