Disulfiram-alcohol reaction

Disulfiram-alcohol reaction is a severe and potentially fatal reaction that can occur when a person consumes alcohol while taking the medication disulfiram. Disulfiram is a drug used in the treatment of alcohol dependence and works by inhibiting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which is involved in the metabolism of alcohol.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a disulfiram-alcohol reaction can occur within 10 to 30 minutes of consuming alcohol and may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Flushing of the skin
• Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Headache
• Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
• Confusion
• Vertigo (dizziness)
• Syncope (fainting)

Causes

The disulfiram-alcohol reaction is caused by the buildup of acetaldehyde in the body. Disulfiram inhibits the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which is responsible for breaking down acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism. When acetaldehyde dehydrogenase is inhibited, acetaldehyde accumulates in the body, leading to the symptoms of the disulfiram-alcohol reaction.

Treatment

The treatment for a disulfiram-alcohol reaction is primarily supportive and involves managing the symptoms. This may include intravenous fluids for dehydration caused by vomiting, medications to control nausea and vomiting, and monitoring of vital signs. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

Prevention

The best way to prevent a disulfiram-alcohol reaction is to avoid alcohol while taking disulfiram. This includes not only beverages containing alcohol, but also foods, mouthwashes, and medications that may contain alcohol.

See also

• Alcohol dependence
• Alcohol withdrawal syndrome
• Acetaldehyde syndrome