Antabuse

Drug Uses

Antabuse is an alcohol-abuse deterrent that is used for treating alcoholism. However, the drug must be paired with counseling and regular therapy and must not be used without the consent of the patient.

How it is taken

The best way to take is as recommended by your doctor. You may also check dosage instructions on the product label.

The pill must be taken once or twice daily and may be swallowed whole or crushed or chewed if swallowing is a problem. Alcohol (including beer, wine, aftershave lotions, mouthwash, colognes, liquid medications) must be strictly avoided at all costs when taking Antabuse. If you are unsure about a product then read its product label.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Antabuse blocks the oxidation of alcohol at the Acetaldehyde stage and creates sensitivity to alcohol in the body. So, if the patient ingests even a minute amount of alcohol, it will lead to an increase of Acetaldehyde in the blood which produces a string of unpleasant symptoms commonly referred to as the Antabuse alcohol reaction. The reaction is directly proportional to the amount of alcohol and antabuse and will persist as long as alcohol continues to be metabolized. 
 
Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Antabuse, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, heart disease, liver or kidney disease, psychiatric problems, diabetes, any allergies (especially to rubber or pesticides).

You must not take Antabuse if you are drinking alcohol as it can cause intolerance to alcohol. It will lead to serious side effects like flushing, headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, pounding heart (palpitations), blurred vision or weakness which will last from 30 minutes to several hours. These reactions may keep occurring for up to two weeks after the medication is stopped.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then discuss with your doctor before using Antabuse.
It is unknown whether Antabuse is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Some of the common side effects of Antabuse are headache, drowsiness, restlessness, skin rash, acne, garlic-like aftertaste, changes in vision.

In rare cases side effects like tingling hands or feet, fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, strong stomach pains, dark urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin may also occur. You should consult your doctor if any of these side effects occur.