What type of drug is Antabuse (disulfiram) primarily used for?

Antabuse, also known as disulfiram, is primarily used for treating alcohol addiction. It works by inhibiting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which is involved in the metabolism of alcohol. When a person taking disulfiram consumes alcohol, they experience unpleasant reactions such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, and palpitations, which serve as a deterrent to drinking. This creates a strong motivation to abstain from alcohol as the individual associates drinking with these adverse effects.

The targeted mechanism of action of disulfiram makes it a specific intervention for individuals who are seeking help with their alcohol use and are willing to commit to abstaining from drinking. It is not effective for opioid addiction, narcotic overdose, or benzodiazepine dependence, as those conditions require different treatment approaches that are suited to their specific pharmacological implications and withdrawal symptoms.