First case report of cefmetazole-induced disulfiram-like reaction

Abstract

Disulfiram-like reactions occur when alcohol is consumed concurrently with certain drugs and can sometimes be fatal. Some cephalosporins such as cefoperazone could cause disulfiram-like reaction, known as cephalosporin-induced disulfiram-like reactions (CIDLRs). We describe a case of cefmetazole (CMZ)-treated CIDLR triggered by alcohol consumption. A 72-year-old Japanese man, treated with CMZ for perforated appendicitis and subsequent paralytic ileus, presented with skin flushing and chest discomfort, developing 30 min after consuming usual meals and alcohol. CIDLR was diagnosed due to recent use of CMZ and the symptoms alleviated without any medication. This is the first case report of a CMZ-induced disulfiram-like reaction.

Keywords

• Disulfiram
• Cephalosporin
• Cefmetazole
• Cephalosporin-induced disulfiram-like reaction
• Anaphylaxis
• Antihistamines