What is Antabuse (Disulfiram) used for?

Antabuse (Disulfiram) is an aid in the management of selected chronic alcohol patients who want to remain in a state of enforced sobriety so that supportive and psychotherapeutic treatment may be applied to best advantage. Antabuse (Disulfiram) is not a cure for alcoholism. When used alone, without proper motivation and supportive therapy, it is unlikely that it will have any substantive effect on the drinking pattern of the chronic alcoholic.

How should I use Antabuse (Disulfiram)?

Antabuse (Disulfiram) should never be administered until the patient has abstained from alcohol for at least 12 hours.

The first phase of treatment
A maximum of 500 mg daily is given in a single dose for one to two weeks. Although usually taken in the morning, Antabuse (Disulfiram) may be taken on retiring by patients who experience a sedative effect. Alternatively, to minimize, or eliminate, the sedative effect, dosage may be adjusted downward.

Maintenance Regimen
The average dose is 250 mg daily (range 125 - 500 mg) and should not exceed 500 mg daily.

Take Antabuse (Disulfiram) by mouth, usually 1 tablet daily as directed by your physician. Tablets can be crushed or mixed with liquid if swallowing is a problem. While taking Antabuse (Disulfiram), it is extremely important you avoid alcohol in all forms including beer, wine, aftershave lotions, mouthwash, colognes, liquid medications. Read labels carefully, including those of nonprescription products. Ask your pharmacist about the alcohol content if you are uncertain.

What are the side effects of Antabuse (Disulfiram)?

• drowsiness
• fatigue
• lassitude
• psychotic reactions
• peripheral and optic neuropathies
• hepatotoxicity
• garlic-like or metallic after-taste
• body odour
• bad breath
• headache
• impotence
• tingling hands or feet
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• strong stomach pains
• dark urine
• yellowing of the eyes or skin

Please Note

Tell your physician your medical history, especially heart disease, liver or kidney disease, psychiatric problems, diabetes. Drinking alcohol while on this medication can cause serious effects that can last from 30 minutes to several hours. These alcohol reactions can occur up to two weeks after the medication has been stopped. Because Antabuse (Disulfiram) can cause drowsiness, use caution when driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness. Antabuse (Disulfiram) should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your physician. It is not known if Antabuse (Disulfiram) is excreted into breast milk. Consult your physician before breast-feeding.