Question

a pharmacy technician should recognize that a patient who has a prescription for disulfiram (antabuse) is likely being treated for which of the following conditions?

alcohol dependence
opioid dependence
alcohol overdose
opioid overdose

Explanation:

Identify the drug and its mechanism

Disulfiram (brand name Antabuse) is an aldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitor. It interferes with the normal metabolism of alcohol by causing a buildup of acetaldehyde if alcohol is consumed.

Determine the clinical indication

The accumulation of acetaldehyde produces highly unpleasant physical reactions (such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, and tachycardia). This reaction serves as a deterrent, making the drug useful in supporting the treatment of chronic alcohol dependence.

Evaluate the given options

• Alcohol dependence: Correct, as disulfiram is used as a deterrent therapy for individuals recovering from alcohol use disorder.
• Opioid dependence: Incorrect; medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone are used here.
• Alcohol overdose: Incorrect; supportive care is used for acute overdose, not a deterrent like disulfiram.
• Opioid overdose: Incorrect; naloxone is the reversal agent used for acute opioid overdose.

Answer:

• Alcohol dependence (Correct answer)
• Opioid dependence
• Alcohol overdose
• Opioid overdose