carbamate derivative used as an alcohol deterrent; it is a relatively nontoxic substance when administered alone, but markedly alters the intermediary metabolism of alcohol; when alcohol is ingested after administration of disulfiram, blood acetaldehyde concentrations are increased, followed by flushing, systemic vasodilation, respiratory difficulties, nausea, hypotension, and other symptoms (acetaldehyde syndrome); it acts by inhibiting aldehyde dehydrogenase.