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Disulfiram induced peripheral neuropathy: between the devil and the deep blue sea

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 June 2014

Caragh Behan ,
Abbie Lane  and
Mary Clarke
Caragh Behan
Affiliation:
Cluain Mhuire Family Centre, Newtownpark Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin, Ireland
Abbie Lane
Affiliation:
St John of God Hospital, Stillorgan, Co Dublin, Ireland
Mary Clarke
Affiliation:
St John of God Hospital, Stillorgan, Co Dublin, Ireland
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Abstract

Disulfiram is widely used for the aversive treatment of alcoholism. It is well tolerated in most patients; however 1:15,000 will develop peripheral neuropathy, which is frequently misdiagnosed as alcoholic neuropathy. Most cases present with a motor-sensory neuropathy of the lower limbs, which tends to improve when administration ceases, though some cases may be left with permanent sequelae. This adverse reaction can be avoided by using the lowest effective dose. A literature review using the Medline revealed 66 citations relating disulfiram to peripheral neuropathy, and the number of cases reported is small.

Keywords

DisulfiramAlcohol dependencePeripheral neuropathyAversive treatmentPharmacology
Type
Case reports
Information
Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine , Volume 24 , Issue 3 , September 2007 , pp. 115 - 116
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2007

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