disulfiram + chemotherapy

Disulfiram + chemotherapy is an experimental combination regimen investigated by the Mayo Clinic for the treatment of metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma and other refractory solid tumors. Disulfiram, a small molecule traditionally used to treat alcohol dependence, is being repurposed as an antineoplastic agent. It acts as an inhibitor of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) and, when complexed with metal ions like copper, can inhibit the proteasome and NF-kappaB signaling pathways. In this specific clinical context (NCT02671890), disulfiram is hypothesized to reduce tumor-induced muscle wasting (cachexia) by inhibiting muscle degradation and to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy agents, such as gemcitabine, by increasing the sensitivity of cancer cells to treatment.

Brand names

Antabuse

Other names

disulfiramtetraethylthiuram disulfidedisulfiram + gemcitabine hydrochloride