What is disulfiram used for in addiction treatment?

Disulfiram is primarily used in the treatment of chronic alcoholism and is known for its unique mechanism of action. It works by inhibiting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which plays a role in metabolizing alcohol. When a person taking disulfiram consumes alcohol, it leads to the accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body, resulting in unpleasant reactions such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, and palpitations. This aversive response is intended to deter individuals from drinking alcohol, thereby supporting their recovery efforts.

The other options do not accurately describe the function of disulfiram. It does not relieve withdrawal symptoms, suppress cravings for illicit drugs, or enhance the effectiveness of therapy sessions in a direct manner. Instead, the focus of disulfiram in treatment is specifically on deterring alcohol consumption to promote abstinence and support recovery from alcohol dependency.