National differences in disulfiram prescribing

Abstract

Aims and methodTo test the impression of wide national differences in the use of deterrent medication in the treatment of alcohol dependence, data showing comparative sales of disulfiram in 13 countries were obtained.ResultsSales in Britain were lowest, and less than a tenth of those in Denmark. Rates bore no relation to alcohol sales or an index of alcohol-related problems in the 13 countries.Clinical implicationsBritish doctors may apply a particularly cautious risk/benefit ratio for disulfiram. The disparity may also reflect the predominantly nonmedical approach to treating alcohol dependence in Britain.