Disulfiram neuropathy

Can Med Assoc J. 1980 Jul 19;123(2):123-6.

Abstract

Disulfiram (Antabuse) can produce neuropathy in daily doses of less than the usually recommended 500 mg. The four recent cases reported in this paper emphasize the need for greater recognition of this condition. Nerve biopsies showed axonal degeneration. The neuropathy is difficult to distinguish from that associated with ethanol abuse. Disulfiram neuropathy occurs after a variable latent period (mean 5 to 6 months) and progresses steadily. Slow improvement may occur when the drug's use is stopped; often there is complete recovery eventually.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Disulfiram / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Peripheral Nerves / pathology
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / pathology

Substances

  • Disulfiram