Overview
It works only when taken daily and as part of a full recovery program.
What it's used for
- Alcohol use disorder
How to take it
- Never take it while intoxicated or within 12 hours of drinking.
- Avoid all alcohol, including in mouthwash, cough syrup, sauces, and some skin products, while taking it and for 2 weeks after.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- Metallic or garlic taste
- Headache
- Skin rash
Warnings
- Boxed warning: never give it to someone who is drinking or without their full knowledge.
- Carry a card saying you take it.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Metronidazole, alcohol-containing medicines, and some others can cause serious reactions.
- It raises levels of warfarin and phenytoin.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Talk with your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Disulfiram (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.