Antabuse (Disulfiram) is used to treat chronic alcoholism along with counselling. This medication discourages alcohol consumption. It will cause adverse reactions such as sweating, chest pain and nausea when consumed with alcohol. Disulfiram is an alcohol antagonist drug. It works by interfering with the way the body metobolises alcohol. Alcohol is broken down in the body to a compound called acetaldehyde, which is broken down further by an enzyme in the liver called aldehyde dehydrogenase. Disulfiram stops this enzyme from working.
Manufacturer Information
Canadian Pharmacy King currently offers the brand Antabuse from New Zealand and Turkey also called Antabus manufactured by Dumex. The generic Disulfiram is available from India by a different manufacturer. Antabuse is available in the strength of 200 mg, 250 mg and 500 mg tablets.
The common side effects may include acne, drowsiness, headache, metallic or garlic taste in the mouth and tiredness.
Inform your doctor if you have any of the serious side effects such as:
• Confusion;
• Decreased sexual ability;
• Mental or mood changes;
• Muscle weakness;
• Numbeness or tingling of arms and legs;
• Seizures;
• Vision changes
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Please call your doctor right away if you have any further concerns or questions.
You should not take Antabuse if you are allergic to Disulfiram or if you have any other allergies. Before you start using this medication, talk to your doctor about your medical history and about all the medications you take including OTC and herbal medications. Avoid all alcoholic beverages or alcohol containing products or foods. If you consume high doses of alcohol after taking large doses of Disulfiram, you can experience severe side effects and life threatening reactions. This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless it is clearly needed. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor before breast-feeding. There may be a drug interaction between Antabuse and other alcohol containing products such as cough and cold syrups, amitriptyline, and some seizure medications. Antabuse can also increase the side effects of caffeine. Avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine or eating large amounts of chocolate.
Anti-alcohol Poster from Canadian Pharmacy King