Antabuse

Drug name

Antabuse (Disulfiram)

Drug Uses

Antabuse is intended to treat alcoholism. However it is recommended to use this medicine coupled with supportive therapy and counseling. Don’t use this drug without a patient being aware of it.

How Taken

The drug should be taken orally 1-2 tablets per day. It is recommended to smash pills or mix them with water in case it is difficult to swallow. The drug shouldn’t be taken within 12 hours after drinking alcohol. Do not drink and use any alcohol (aftershave lotions, mouthwash, liquid medications included) while treatment. Check the medicines you are taking for alcohol presence or consult your doctor.

Missed Dose

In case you have missed to take the medicine do it at the moment you have remembered but skip it in case it is the time of your next dosage and follow your usual schedule. You shouldn’t use double dose simultaneously.

Storage

Keep the drug between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in the impermeable container at the cool and dark place.

Warnings Precautions

Before starting the treatment consult your doctor and tell him about the diseases and situations you have experienced. Taking alcohol while treatment can lead to serious effects such as flushing, headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, pounding heart (palpitations), blurred vision or weakness that could last for several hours. After the end of the treatment these reactions can continue to appear up to 2 weeks. Use the medicine with caution when driving and only in case of need during the pregnancy. Talk to your doctor before taking it while pregnancy and breast-feeding periods.

Possible Side Effects

Taking this drug may lead to such side effects as headache, drowsiness, restlessness, skin rash, acne, garlic-like aftertaste, changes in vision. Talk to your doctor in cast the situation becomes worse. Immediately consult your doctor in case such side effects as tingling hands or feet, fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, strong stomach pains, dark urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin have occurred. Other side effects not mentioned here may also occur.

More Information

Do not give this drug to the patients that have no directions to use the drug. The medicine should be taken only for alcoholism treatment.
Don’t forget to refresh your reserve before you use it.