Controlled trials of Antabuse in alcoholism: the importance of supervision and adequate dosage

Methods of using Antabuse have changed since its introduction over 40 years ago. Several randomised controlled trials have shown that Antabuse can make a statistically and clinically significant contribution to treatment outcome in alcoholism but only if its administration is carefully supervised. The recent literature is reviewed. Adequate dosage is important and the recommended maximum in some countries is often insufficient. Both prescribers and supervisors of Antabuse need to be aware of the ways in which some patients try to evade medication.