How does Antabuse work?
Antabuse (disulfiram) works by blocking the removal of a toxic substance (acetaldehyde) that occurs in the liver when alcohol is broken down or metabolized. A special enzyme, acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which rids the liver and bloodstream of this substance is the target of Antabuse. Flushing, a tight feeling in the chest, headache and more or less severe discomfort are experienced by the person who takes a drink after taking Antabuse. The effect of a dose of Antabuse usually lasts from twenty-four to forty-eight hours. This very unpleasant consequence of drinking alcohol while taking Antabuse does not address at all the mental and emotional symptoms at the root of alcoholism. Antabuse is occasionally helpful in getting a person through a severe period of craving experienced early in recovery. However, these benefits have generally not been effective in maintaining long-term sobriety.
