Disulfiram is a daily oral medication to sustain abstinence from alcohol; this is considered what type of therapy?

• A. Pharmacologic therapy
• B. Aversion therapy
• C. Behavioral therapy
• D. Supportive counseling

Answer: (B)

Disulfiram is used to sustain abstinence by creating an aversive reaction to alcohol, so this represents aversion therapy. When alcohol is consumed, disulfiram inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, leading to an acetaldehyde buildup that produces unpleasant effects such as flushing, rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. That conditioned negative response deters drinking and is the core idea of aversion therapy. Although disulfiram is a drug, the therapeutic approach it embodies is aversion therapy rather than purely pharmacologic management, behavioral skills training, or supportive counseling.