What side effect is associated with disulfiram when taken with alcohol?

Disulfiram is a medication used to support the treatment of chronic alcohol dependence. It works by inhibiting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which is involved in the metabolism of alcohol. When alcohol is consumed while taking disulfiram, acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism, accumulates in the body because it cannot be effectively converted to acetic acid.

The accumulation of acetaldehyde leads to a variety of unpleasant reactions, commonly referred to as the disulfiram-alcohol reaction. This reaction can cause symptoms such as flushing, headache, palpitations, and particularly nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can be so severe that they serve as a strong deterrent against alcohol consumption while on disulfiram, thereby supporting the goal of sobriety.

This information emphasizes why nausea and vomiting is the primary side effect associated with disulfiram when taken with alcohol.