Disulfiram-like drug

Disulfiram-like drug

Disulfiram-like drugs (pronunciation: /dɪˈsʌlfɪræm/), also known as alcohol-sensitizing drugs, are a class of medications that deter the consumption of alcohol by causing unpleasant side effects. The name derives from the drug Disulfiram, which is one of the most commonly used drugs in this class.

Etymology

The term "Disulfiram-like" is derived from the drug Disulfiram, which was discovered in the 1920s. The suffix "-like" is used to denote other drugs that have similar effects or mechanisms of action.

Mechanism of Action

Disulfiram-like drugs work by inhibiting the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase, which is involved in the metabolism of alcohol. This leads to an accumulation of acetaldehyde, a toxic metabolite of alcohol, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, flushing, and palpitations if alcohol is consumed.

Examples

Some examples of Disulfiram-like drugs include:

• Disulfiram
• Metronidazole
• Cefotetan
• Chlorpropamide
• Tolbutamide

Related Terms

• Alcohol dehydrogenase
• Acetaldehyde
• Alcohol intolerance
• Antabuse - a brand name for Disulfiram

See Also

• Alcohol withdrawal syndrome
• Alcohol use disorder
• Pharmacotherapy of alcohol use disorder

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Disulfiram-like drug
• Wikipedia's article - Disulfiram-like drug

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