Antabuse (Disulfiram)

What is Antabuse?

Antabuse (disulfiram) is an oral drug used to treat chronic alcoholism.

What is Antabuse used for?

Antabuse is used along with other rehabilitation methods such as counseling and support in the treatment of chronic alcoholism.

How does Antabuse work?

Antabuse inhibits the metabolism of alcohol thereby causing unpleasant effects on consumption of alcohol.

How to use Antabuse

Antabuse should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Antabuse is usually taken orally once a day, preferably in the morning, along with a glass of water.

The drug should be taken regularly at the same time to get the best results.

The maximum recommended dose for the drug is 500mg per day.

Do not stop your dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse consult your doctor immediately.

Antabuse warnings and precautions

Antabuse is not administered to patients who are allergic to disulfiram.

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your medical conditions, especially if you have any of the following conditions: kidney or liver disease, diabetes, seizure disorder, thyroid disorder, brain damage or mental disorders. In such cases you may need a dose adjustment.

If you drink alcohol while taking Antabuse unpleasant symptoms such as vertigo, chest pain, low blood pressure, nausea, flushing, thirst, fast heartbeats may occur. You should not take Antabuse for 12 hours after alcohol consumption.

Common products which contain alcohol, such as, mouth washes, vinegars, cough and cold medicines, tonics, ketchup may cause similar symptoms if taken while undergoing treatment with Antabuse.

You may be advised to carry a medical ID card stating the fact that you are undergoing treatment with this drug.

Effects of Antabuse on fetus are not known for certain. But it is believed to pass through breast milk and affect a nursing baby. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the drug with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Antabuse dose?

If you have missed an Antabuse dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Antabuse overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Antabuse, seek medical attention immediately.

Antabuse interactions

Some drugs which may interact with Antabuse are: MAO inhibitors, anticoagulants, phenytoin, antidepressants, lithium, benzodiazepine, isoniazid, theophylline, or metronidazole.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using this drug

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Antabuse side effects

Side effects from Antabuse include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat, hives, redness of skin etc. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. Also consult your doctor if you notice any of the following serious side effects: jaundice, dark urine, severe diarrhea or vomiting, drastic changes in appetite, weakness, dizziness, or loss of co-ordinations.

Mild drowsiness, tiredness, skin rashes, impotence, mild headache, swollen or sore tongue, acne, and metallic taste in mouth are some less serious side effects of Antabuse.