disulfiram
n. a drug used as an aversive agent in managing alcohol abuse or dependence. Disulfiram inhibits the activity of acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, an enzyme responsible for the metabolism of alcohol (ethanol) in the liver. Consumption of alcohol following administration of disulfiram results in accumulation of acetaldehyde, a toxic metabolic product of ethanol, with such unpleasant effects as nausea, vomiting, sweating, headache, a fast heart rate, and palpitations. Because of the serious nature of some of these effects (which can include damage to the liver and heart), informed consent is required before use of disulfiram. Disulfiram by itself is rarely effective in managing alcoholism and should be administered only in concert with a carefully designed behavioral regimen. U.S. trade name: Antabuse.