Antabuse Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

Antabuse works by blocking the enzyme (a natural protein that helps the body process substances) that breaks down acetaldehyde (a chemical made when the body processes alcohol).  

If a person drinks while taking Antabuse, acetaldehyde builds up and causes what’s called a disulfiram-alcohol reaction (a strong physical reaction to drinking). This reaction can include: 

• Chest pain 
• Throbbing headache 
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Flushing and sweating 
• Upper stomach pain 
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations 
• Blurred vision or eye pain 
• Weakness or dizziness 

These reactions can last for several hours. For severe reactions, medical attention may be required. Even small amounts of alcohol—as found in cough syrups, mouthwash, aftershave, or some sauces—can trigger a reaction. Anyone taking disulfiram should be careful to avoid all alcohol-containing products. 

On rare occasions, people can experience an allergic reaction to disulfiram even without consuming alcohol. For safety, Antabuse should always be taken under medical supervision. 

Antabuse is intended for people who are ready to stop drinking entirely. It’s not appropriate for those who are unwilling or unable to commit to abstinence. 

This medication is also not recommended for patients with severe heart disease, liver disease, or kidney disease. Because accidental exposure to alcohol-containing products can cause serious adverse reactions, disulfiram is only suitable for someone who can reliably avoid those substances. 

For some patients, Antabuse may be considered if other AUD medications such as acamprosate or naltrexone are not a good fit. All patients should discuss risks and benefits with a licensed healthcare provider before starting treatment.  

When appropriate, BrightView prescribes Antabuse as part of our comprehensive outpatient treatment program. Schedule an appointment or find a location near you today to get started with an individualized treatment plan. 

Antabuse can interact with several other medications, including: 

• Seizure drugs containing phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek) 
• Blood thinners such as warfarin 
• Isoniazid, used to treat tuberculosis 
• Metronidazole-containing antibiotics 
• Asthma and COPD drugs containing theophylline 
• Painkillers such as morphine 
• Stimulants like amphetamines 
• Benzodiazepines 
• Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline 

This isn't a full list. Always tell your healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. 

Patients taking disulfiram need to avoid alcohol completely. Even trace amounts can trigger a reaction. Common products to watch for include: 

• Cough syrups, mouthwash, or toothpaste with alcohol 
• Cooking sauces and extracts 
• Aftershaves and colognes 
• “Non-alcoholic” beer and wine (which may still contain trace amounts of alcohol) 
• Fermented foods and beverages, such as kombucha 

If in doubt, always check before consuming or using a product. 

At BrightView, we provide a better approach to addiction treatment. Our treatment programs combine MAT options like Antabuse with counseling, group therapy, and social support to treat the whole person. 

• Counseling allows patients to explore the "why" behind alcohol use disorder. You'll learn to recognize potential triggers, build coping strategies, and find confidence to move forward. 
• Group therapy helps reduce the isolation that often accompanies alcohol addiction. In regular group meetings, you'll share in the struggles and triumphs of others on the road to recovery. 
• Social support includes case management services. Your BrightView case manager can help you find job training resources, apply for insurance, and discover other important resources. 

We provide comprehensive outpatient addiction treatment. We welcome weekday walk-ins and can offer same-day appointments for many of our patients.