Alcohol and Disulfiram: Drug Interaction Guide

Quick answer: This is a major interaction — avoid combining Alcohol and Disulfiram unless specifically directed by your doctor.

Interaction severity: Major — avoid combination

How Alcohol interacts with Disulfiram

Disulfiram inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, causing accumulation of acetaldehyde when ethanol is consumed, producing flushing, tachycardia, nausea, and hypotension.

What you should do

Counsel patient to avoid all alcohol including in medications, mouthwash, and food sources for at least 14 days after stopping disulfiram.

Key facts

Severity

Major — avoid combination

Mechanism

Disulfiram inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, causing accumulation of acetaldehyde when ethanol is consumed, producing flu...

Action

Counsel patient to avoid all alcohol including in medications, mouthwash, and food sources for at least 14 days after st...

Important medical disclaimer: This page provides educational information about drug interactions for general reference. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always discuss your specific medications with a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment. About our editorial team.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Alcohol and Disulfiram together?

No — this combination should generally be avoided. Counsel patient to avoid all alcohol including in medications, mouthwash, and food sources for at least 14 days after stopping disulfiram.

What is the severity of this interaction?

The interaction between Alcohol and Disulfiram is classified as Major — avoid combination. Disulfiram inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, causing accumulation of acetaldehyde when ethanol is consumed, producing flushing, tachycardia, nausea, and hypotension.

What should I do if I'm prescribed both?

Counsel patient to avoid all alcohol including in medications, mouthwash, and food sources for at least 14 days after stopping disulfiram. Always consult your prescribing clinician — do not stop or change medications without medical guidance.

Last reviewed: by iMedic Medical Editorial Team. Our editorial process.