Disulfiram is typically administered how often for alcohol use disorder treatment?

Disulfiram is typically administered how often for alcohol use disorder treatment?

• A. Twice daily
• B. Once daily
• C. Weekly
• D. As needed

Answer: (B)

Disulfiram works by continuously inhibiting the enzyme that normally breaks down acetaldehyde. For this aversive reaction to be reliably triggered if the person drinks, the drug needs to be present in the body on a daily basis. Taking it once daily maintains a steady level of inhibition, so alcohol consumption leads to acetaldehyde buildup and the unpleasant symptoms. If taken less often or only as needed, there could be gaps when the enzyme isn’t inhibited, reducing effectiveness and increasing risk if drinking occurs during those gaps. In practice, daily dosing provides continuous deterrence and is the standard approach, often with a fixed daily dose and regular monitoring.

Disulfiram works by continuously inhibiting the enzyme that normally breaks down acetaldehyde. For this aversive reaction to be reliably triggered if the person drinks, the drug needs to be present in the body on a daily basis. Taking it once daily maintains a steady level of inhibition, so alcohol consumption leads to acetaldehyde buildup and the unpleasant symptoms. If taken less often or only as needed, there could be gaps when the enzyme isn’t inhibited, reducing effectiveness and increasing risk if drinking occurs during those gaps. In practice, daily dosing provides continuous deterrence and is the standard approach, often with a fixed daily dose and regular monitoring.