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Disulfiram in liver diseases: a double-edged sword
Wanyuan Xiong1,2, Aiping Tian2, Zibing Qian1,2
1The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.
Naunyn-Schmiedeberg'S Archives of Pharmacology
|December 16, 2024
Summary
Disulfiram, a drug for alcohol use disorders, shows promise for treating various liver diseases like alcoholic liver disease and liver cancer. However, its use requires careful monitoring due to potential liver injury risks.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hepatology
- Drug Development
Background:
- Disulfiram is an FDA-approved medication for alcohol use disorders.
- Historically used for alcoholic liver disease, it also shows potential in metabolic liver injuries and liver cancer.
- It is cost-effective with established synthesis methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review disulfiram's multifaceted role in liver disease treatment.
- To analyze its therapeutic efficacy, benefits, and limitations.
- To provide a balanced perspective for optimizing its use in liver disease management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of disulfiram's applications in liver conditions.
- Analysis of therapeutic efficacy and safety profiles.
- Examination of potential benefits and limitations in clinical practice.
Main Results:
- Disulfiram is effective in treating alcohol use disorders and alcoholic liver disease.
- It demonstrates potential in managing other liver conditions, including metabolic injuries and cancer.
- A significant limitation is the risk of drug-induced liver injury.
Conclusions:
- Disulfiram offers therapeutic potential for diverse liver diseases.
- Careful patient selection and monitoring are crucial due to hepatotoxicity risks.
- Further research is needed to optimize disulfiram's role in liver disease management.
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