The Sound of Evolution
Disulfiram
Mechanism of action:
Disulfiram is a derivative of thiuram disulfide. It inhibits acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, causing acetaldehyde produced after ethanol intake to remain unmetabolized and accumulate in the blood. When acetaldehyde concentration rises in the body, it can cause facial flushing, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, dyspnea, and sweating. In severe cases, it may lead to arrhythmia, circulatory collapse, and even potentially fatal risk. This unpleasant reaction can create negative conditioning toward alcohol consumption and serve as a behavioral deterrent.
Reference(s):
1. Nash T et al. (1998). Efficacies of zinc-finger-active drugs against Giardia lamblia. Antimicrob Agents Chemother.
2. Bouma MJ et al. (1998). Activity of disulfiram (bis(diethylthiocarbamoyl)disulphide) and ditiocarb (diethyldithiocarbamate) against metronidazole-sensitive and -resistant Trichomonas vaginalis and Tritrichomonas foetus. J Antimicrob Chemother.