What it means
It blocks the enzyme that breaks down acetaldehyde, a toxic product of alcohol. If the person drinks, acetaldehyde builds up within minutes and causes flushing, throbbing headache, nausea and vomiting, a fast heartbeat, sweating and low blood pressure. The fear of this reaction helps motivated people avoid drinking; it does not reduce craving.
For the nurse
Never give it to a client who is intoxicated or who does not know they are taking it; the client must have had no alcohol for at least 12 hours first. Teach that a reaction can happen up to two weeks after the last dose, and to avoid hidden alcohol in cough syrups, mouthwashes, some sauces and vinegars, and products put on the skin.
At a glance
| Drug class | alcohol deterrent |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Antabuse |
| Spanish | disulfiram |
| Also written | Antabuse |
Related terms
Korsakoff syndrome
A long-lasting brain disorder of memory that results from a severe lack of thiamine (vitamin B1).