Last Updated:

May 16th, 2025

Taking Disulfiram as Part of the Detox Process

Disulfiram provides an inventive approach to curbing alcohol relapse by making the consumption of alcohol physically unpleasant. Alcohol use disorder affects millions of people in Britain, and relapse rates among those in recovery are high. Unlike other forms of detox medication, Disulfiram doesn’t ease withdrawal symptoms; it produces unpleasant ones, which make drinking a horrible experience. While this can be an effective preventative measure, Disulfiram may not be the right choice for everyone so it is important to understand its effects, side effects and potential drug interactions.

Disulfiram-pills-stripe

What is Disulfiram?

Disulfiram detox medication is designed as an aversion therapy, used to tackle alcoholic addiction by making consumption physically repelling. This is completely different to other forms of medication typically used in detox which usually reduce cravings or make withdrawal easier. Instead, Disulfiram makes the prospect of relapse unappealing and the actual experience of relapse one which the person doesn’t want to repeat.

The deterrent effects of Disulfiram on alcohol consumption were serendipitously discovered in the 1940s when it was being studied for different uses. Researchers noted that workers handling similar compounds in the rubber industry suffered unpleasant reactions after drinking. This incidental finding prompted further studies, ultimately confirming that Disulfiram could effectively induce negative reactions to alcohol and could be used in treatment for alcoholism.

In 1951, Disulfiram detox medication was approved in the US for the treatment of alcohol addiction and has since been distributed globally under its brand name Antabuse. It is usually given as disulfiram tablets and is typically prescribed to patients who have already stopped drinking and are dedicated to staying sober. Individual disulfiram dosage and how long treatment lasts are tailored to meet the unique requirements of each patient, with strict medical supervision to ensure safety and efficacy.

Disulfiram tablet uses are also being explored for other conditions, including latent HIV, some cancers, parasitic infections and anxiety.

Why does the disulfiram reaction occur?

Disulfiram disrupts the body’s ability to process alcohol by targeting the enzyme responsible for its metabolism. Normally, alcohol is converted into acetaldehyde, which is then transformed into acetic acid by the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase.

Disulfiram detox medication blocks this enzyme, causing acetaldehyde to build up in the bloodstream when alcohol is consumed, leading to immediate and unpleasant reactions that discourage further drinking. A typical disulfiram reaction may involve:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness and vertigo
  • Sweating and flushed skin
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Chest discomfort
  • Headaches and throbbing in the neck
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Blurred vision
  • Excessive thirst
  • Confusion and disorientation
  • Physical weakness
  • Respiratory challenges

These effects can come on within just ten minutes of consuming alcohol but can continue for several hours depending on how much alcohol and Disulfiram have been consumed. Disulfiram tablets need to be taken every day for it to be effective but it can be a huge help in preventing relapse, particularly in those who have already made significant recovery progress.

However, disulfiram detox medication is most effective as one part of a holistic alcohol rehab programme. This will usually involve medical detox, therapies, holistic treatments and aftercare. This comprehensive treatment plan allows Disulfiram to act as a relapse deterrent while the physical, mental and emotional triggers of alcohol addiction are resolved.

What are some potential disulfiram side effects?

When we talk about “side effects”, we usually mean unpleasant or potentially harmful reactions to a drug. However, as a disulfiram reaction is intentionally unpleasant, side effects may be more difficult to spot. To help ensure the safe use of the medication, here are some common disulfiram side effects that patients and healthcare providers should look out for:

  • Acne and skin rashes
  • Lingering low-grade headaches
  • Fatigue and drowsiness
  • Garlicky or metallic aftertaste
  • Minor elevations in liver enzymes

While these are generally harmless, some other side effects of Disulfiram can be potentially harmful. Some of the most serious include:

  • Liver issues – These often appear as symptoms like jaundice, extreme fatigue and unusual changes in urine or stool colour. If you spot any of these disulfiram side effects, you should get regular liver function tests, especially if you have existing liver conditions.
  • Severe neurological symptoms – These include confusion, visual disturbances and seizures.
  • Serious allergic reactions – These can cause difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of the tongue, throat, lips or face.

woman-taking-Disulfiram-tablet

To ensure safety while using Disulfiram, it must be managed by a medical professional who fully understands the patient’s medical background and current health. Patients must also be transparent about their alcohol usage and any other substances they are taking and report any disulfiram side effects immediately to avoid serious complications.

Notable disulfiram drug interactions

The unique way Disulfiram works in the body can cause it to interact with various medications and other substances. These interactions can lead to enhanced effects, reduced effectiveness or increased side effects of other drugs. For anyone prescribed Disulfiram, understanding these interactions is critical to maintaining effective treatment and ensuring personal safety. Some of the most notable disulfiram drug interactions include:

Alcohol and products that contain alcohol
Disulfiram’s interaction with alcohol extends beyond just alcoholic beverages to some over-the-counter medicines, mouthwashes and even meals cooked using alcohol.
Anticoagulants
When Disulfiram is taken alongside anticoagulants like warfarin, the potential for bleeding increases. To maintain patient safety, careful and regular monitoring is required to adjust the dosage of anticoagulants.
Benzodiazepines
Disulfiram interacts with benzodiazepines like diazepam and chlordiazepoxide by slowing their breakdown, which can heighten and extend their effects. These interactions might require lowering the dosage of the benzodiazepines or considering different medications to avoid complications.
Antidepressants
The presence of Disulfiram may intensify the effects of antidepressants that are processed by the liver, such as SSRIs and tricyclics. Patients using these medications may need their doses adjusted to avoid increased side effects.
Antipsychotics
Disulfiram can intensify the effects of liver-metabolized antipsychotic medications, potentially leading to more potent effects as well as a higher risk of toxicity.
Antifungal medications
When taken with antifungal treatments such as ketoconazole, Disulfiram can cause an increase in the medication’s plasma levels, potentially heightening the risk of side effects like liver damage.

Contact us today to learn more about Disulfiram and the detox process

Battling alcohol addiction can seem like an impossible challenge, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Addiction Helper, we are here to answer any detox questions and help you find a rehab programme that fits your situation. Get in touch with us for expert advice and start your journey to alcohol recovery today.

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Our compassionate team are ready and available to take your call, and guide you towards lasting the lasting addiction recovery you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Disulfiram stay in your system?
Disulfiram detox medication can remain active in your system for up to two weeks after your last dose. This means you should abstain from consuming alcohol or alcohol-containing products during this period to avoid the severe reactions that can occur.
What happens if you drink alcohol while taking Disulfiram?
Drinking alcohol while on Disulfiram triggers a very unpleasant set of symptoms, often referred to as the disulfiram-alcohol reaction. This can include symptoms like nausea, headaches, respiratory difficulty, confusion and even more severe effects such as hyperventilation and cardiovascular issues. The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the amount of alcohol consumed and the dosage of Disulfiram​.
How do you stop taking Disulfiram?
Stopping Disulfiram should always be done under medical supervision to safely manage the cessation process and avoid any potential rebound effects. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider the best strategies to taper off Disulfiram safely so they can plan and supervise withdrawal.

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