What common household item should a patient on Antabuse avoid using?

A patient on Antabuse (disulfiram) should avoid using insect repellent due to the potential presence of alcohol or alcohol derivatives in many formulations. These substances can trigger a severe reaction in individuals who are taking Antabuse, as the medication works by inhibiting the metabolism of alcohol, leading to unpleasant symptoms like flushing, palpitations, and nausea if alcohol is consumed.

Insect repellents may not be something the patient immediately thinks of as a source of alcohol exposure, making it critical for healthcare providers to educate patients about all potential sources of alcohol, not just those found in beverages.

Other options like toothpaste, soap, and lotion are generally safe, as they typically contain negligible amounts of alcohol or none at all. However, it is still important for patients to read labels and be aware of the ingredients in the products they use to ensure their safety while on Antabuse.