National differences in disulfiram prescribing

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Abstract
Aims and method: To 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.Results: Sales 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 implications: British 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.