World Journal of
Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences

DISULFIRAM: A REVIEW ARTICLE ON PHARMACOLOGICAL PROFILE AND ITS APPLICATIONS BEYOND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE

Shivali Gupta*, Rahul Sharma, Reetika and Raghav Sharma

ABSTRACT

Disulfiram, an alcohol-aversive drug, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for over 55 years and is widely used in the treatment of alcohol dependence. This review evaluates its clinical efficacy, risks, benefits, and indications while summarizing recent findings in its therapeutic applications. Disulfiram functions by inhibiting the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, leading to unpleasant physiological reactions when alcohol is consumed. This deterrent effect has made it a useful component in alcohol use disorder treatment, particularly in supervised settings to ensure compliance. Clinical studies suggest that Disulfiram can be effective in reducing alcohol relapse when used alongside psychosocial interventions. Beyond alcohol dependency, emerging research has explored its potential in treating cocaine addiction and co-occurring alcohol-cocaine dependence by disrupting dopamine metabolism. Despite its benefits, Disulfiram therapy is associated with risks such as hepatotoxicity, cardiovascular complications, and patient non-adherence due to its aversive effects. Proper patient selection, monitoring, and a structured treatment plan are crucial to maximize its therapeutic potential. This review discusses the challenges clinicians face in managing alcoholism, including identifying alcohol-dependent individuals, implementing detoxification strategies, and incorporating pharmacotherapy into comprehensive treatment programs. Furthermore, it highlights alternative pharmacological interventions and the evolving role of Disulfiram in addiction medicine. The findings underscore the importance of individualized treatment approaches, considering both the pharmacological and psychosocial aspects of recovery.

[Full Text Article]   [Download Certificate]