Disulfiram generic, often prescribed through the Antabuse prescription medication, is issued to help battle alcoholism. Learn how the drug interferes with the body’s processing of alcohol, how to use it, and things to consider before taking Antabuse.
| Medication: | Antabuse (Disulfiram) |
| Tablet Strength: | 250 mg, 500 mg |
| Price: | from $0.47 per pill |
| Where to Buy | Check Prices |
When to use Antabuse
People with chronic alcoholism are often prescribed Antabuse to battle their addiction. It helps by blocking the main enzyme involved in the procession of alcohol. If you take Antabuse and consume alcohol, you will experience adverse effects like chest pain, nausea, heartbeat, flushing, thirst, and dizziness.
Thanks to the above, this drug is very effective in preventing alcohol consumption. Nonetheless, this drug is rarely prescribed as a standalone treatment of alcoholism, often employed alongside counseling support. In essence, it is not a cure for alcoholism instead of a preventive mechanism.
What is the proper dosage?
Antabuse should be taken only according to your doctor’s advice and tips. Your prescription will contain specific directions on dosage, frequency, and refills. Your pharmacist could also help clarify any confusion or provide guidance on how to take Antabuse.
Generally, it would help if you stored in average temperature, away from sunlight and moisture. Doctors often prescribe this drug for yearly consumption, alongside counseling. It would help if you always took Antabuse orally, once per day, with or before your meal. This medication might cause drowsiness; if you experience this, take it before sleep. There is no standard dosage of Antabuse, but there is a maximum daily limit of 500 mg. If you miss a dosage, take it as soon as you remember it, unless the next dose is approaching. Remember to use the drug often; otherwise, it will not prove effective.
You must carry an identification card that states you are taking Antabuse if a doctor needs to treat you. Further, you will be imposed to frequent blood tests, monitoring your liver function.
Antabuse side effects and considerations
People taking Antabuse should not drink alcohol or consume it within twelve hours of their dosage. Avoid alcohol for at least two weeks if you stop taking the medication. Patients allergic to Disulfiram should not take Antabuse, as those that have consumed metronidazole and any products containing alcohol. If you have any of the following, you should also avoid Antabuse:
Psychosis diagnosis or other mental illness
- Severe heart disease
- Liver disease
- Thyroid underactivity
- Diabetes
- Seizures/epilepsy
- Brain damage
- Allergy to rubber
Taking Dilantin, Warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven, or tuberculosis medicine
The above is not a complete list of the drugs or conditions that could have adverse effects if you take Antabuse. Your doctor can inform you after you provide an entire medical history. Keep in mind that many products contain alcohol, so you must read the labels before consuming any potential alcoholic substance to avoid adverse reactions.
If you follow the above and still experience flushing, sweating, nausea, blurred vision, neck pain, chest pain, inability to breathe, fast heartbeat, confusion, or feeling like fainting, you should contact your physician. The above are the common side effects, usually appearing if you drink alcohol while taking Antabuse. Such a reaction could prove fatal. Experiencing any of the above should be instantly followed by a call to your doctor.