Disulfiram is used as what kind of deterrent?

• A. Antibiotic
• B. Alcohol deterrent
• C. Antidepressant
• D. Sedative

Answer: (B)

Disulfiram is used as an alcohol deterrent. It works by irreversibly inhibiting the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase in the liver. When someone drinks alcohol while taking it, acetaldehyde builds up in the body, causing an unpleasant reaction: facial flushing, sweating, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and sometimes low blood pressure. This aversive response is meant to deter drinking and support abstinence as part of a broader treatment plan for alcohol use disorder.

It’s not an antibiotic, antidepressant, or sedative, so its role isn’t to treat infection, mood disorders, or promote sleep. The key concept is using a conditioned, negative consequence to reduce alcohol consumption, reinforcing sobriety through adherence and counseling. Remember that even small amounts of alcohol in products like mouthwash or cough syrups can trigger the reaction, so patients need thorough education and monitoring.