Dichlorobenzyl alcohol has broad-spectrum activity as an antimicrobial agent and is used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Dichlorobenzyl alcohol has antimicrobial effect against 115 strains of dental plaque. Dichlorobenzyl alcohol inhibited growth of microorganisms but showed highest activity against A. actinomycetemcomitans and Por. gingivalis, organisms related to juvenile and destructive forms of periodontitis. It is a common ingredient in throat lozenges such as Neo angin, Strepsils, Lorsept, and Gorpils. A throat lozenge containing amyl meta cresol and dichlorobenzyl alcohol has a direct virucidal effect on respiratory syncytial virus, influenza A and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV).

Calcium carbimide, a disulfiram-like drug was marketed in some countries, e.g., in Australia, in South Africa, in the Netherlands, in the United Kingdom, and in Canada (under the brand name Temposil) for the treatment of chronic alcoholism. The drug produced physiological changes after ethanol consumption by means of interfering with the normal metabolism of alcohol. Carbimide was a competitive inhibitor of the hepatic aldehyde-NAD oxidoreductase dehydrogenase. As a result, it was unpleasant further drinking. In 2006 was published an article where was described the hepatotoxicity effect of the drug and mentioned that had to be reassessment the role of the compound in the management of alcohol dependence.

Nalmefene is the first medication approved for alcoholism with the primary goal of reducing alcohol intake in an as needed approach. Nalmefene received a marketing authorization valid throughout the European Union on February 25, 2013 and is under development in Asia. Nalmefene is an opioid system modulator with a distinct μ, δ, and κ receptor profile. In vitro studies have demonstrated that Nalmefene is a selective opioid receptor ligand with antagonist activity at the μ and δ receptors and partial agonist activity at the κ receptor. In vivo studies have demonstrated that nalmefene reduces alcohol consumption, possibly by modulating cortico-mesolimbic functions. In the US, immediate-release injectable nalmefene was approved in 1995 as an antidote for opioid overdose. It was sold under the trade name Revex. The product was discontinued by its manufacturer around 2008. Currently Nalmefene is sold under the trade name Selincro. Selincro is indicated for the reduction of alcohol consumption in adult patients with alcohol dependence who have a high drinking-risk level, without physical withdrawal symptoms and who do not require immediate detoxification.