disulfiram

Disulfiram is a small molecule drug primarily used to support the treatment of chronic alcoholism by producing an acute sensitivity to ethanol. It acts as an irreversible inhibitor of the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), leading to accumulation of acetaldehyde when alcohol is consumed. This results in unpleasant physiological reactions such as flushing, tachycardia, hypotension, nausea, vomiting, and headache within minutes after alcohol intake. The deterrent effect helps discourage alcohol consumption[1][4][5]. Disulfiram does not reduce cravings for alcohol but relies on aversive conditioning. It is typically administered orally in tablet form and its effects can persist for up to two weeks after discontinuation due to slow elimination from the body[2][4].\nBeyond its approved use in alcohol dependence therapy, research has explored potential applications in cancer therapy (notably via inhibition of NPL4-p97 complex), parasitic infections, and latent HIV infection[1][5].

Brand names

Antabuse戒酒硫

Other names

双硫仑二硫化四乙基秋兰姆tetraethylthiuram disulfide