Common Use

Antabuse is a medication designed to treat chronic alcoholism. Its active ingredient, disulfiram bis(diethylthiocarbamoyl), blocks alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), the enzyme responsible for metabolizing ethanol. This leads to an increase in blood acetaldehyde levels, causing unpleasant symptoms such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, and reduced blood pressure. As a result, consuming alcohol while on Antabuse becomes highly unpleasant.

Dosage and Direction

Take Antabuse orally at least 12 hours after consuming alcohol. Avoid all forms of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, aftershave lotions, liquid medications, mouthwash, and colognes, during treatment. Swallow the pill with a full glass of water.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart problems, stomach or duodenal ulcers, cerebral circulation disorders, or disulfiram psychosis. Exercise caution when using Antabuse in patients over 60 years of age.

Contraindications

Antabuse is not suitable for individuals with severe cardiovascular diseases, neuritis of the auditory nerve, glaucoma, optic neuritis, bronchial asthma, emphysema, pulmonary tuberculosis, severe hepatic impairment, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, mental illness, acute peptic ulcer, kidney diseases, malignant tumors, polyneuritis, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also contraindicated in cases of allergic reactions to the medication.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include restlessness, headache, drowsiness, skin rash, acne, vision changes, and a garlic-like aftertaste. Rare but serious side effects may include tingling hands or feet, fatigue, weakness, severe stomach pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, and yellowing of the eyes or skin. If severe side effects occur or worsen, consult your doctor immediately.

Drug Interaction

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and herbal products you are taking, particularly tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., imipramine, amitriptyline, doxepin, nortriptyline), isoniazid, phenytoin, warfarin, metronidazole, theophylline, MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine), benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, alprazolam, clorazepate, temazepam, chlordiazepoxide, triazolam), and lithium.

Missed Dose

Never double the dose of Antabuse. If you miss a dose and it is almost time for the next one, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

Overdose

Seek immediate medical attention in case of an Antabuse overdose. Symptoms may include loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, numbness, tingling, and seizures.

Storage

Store Antabuse at room temperature (59-86°F or 15-30°C) away from moisture and sunlight. Avoid storing it in humid areas like bathrooms.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for general guidance and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We disclaim any liability for the reliability of this information or any consequences resulting from its use.