What medication is associated with a disulfiram (Antabuse)-like reaction?

Metronidazole (Flagyl) is the medication associated with a disulfiram (Antabuse)-like reaction. This type of reaction occurs when a person ingests alcohol while taking certain medications, leading to unpleasant symptoms such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, and palpitations. Metronidazole is an antibiotic commonly used to treat various infections, including those caused by anaerobic bacteria and certain parasites. When combined with alcohol, it can trigger these adverse reactions, similar to the effects of disulfiram, which is designed to discourage alcohol consumption in individuals with alcohol use disorder.

Understanding the interactions between medications and alcohol is crucial for clinicians, especially when prescribing metronidazole. This awareness helps prevent potential health risks for patients and encourages discussions about alcohol use during treatment.