Disulfaram

WHAT IS DISULFIRAM?

Disulfiram is a drug used to treat alcohol dependence and this is how it works. Alcohol is transformed in the body into acetaldehyde, so Disulfiram inhibits this enzyme.

The effect is that of a “hangover” the second after you start drinking. You’ll experience a “hangover” by feeling nauseated, chest pain, weakness, confusion, breathing problems and anxiety and they usually start no more than 15 minutes after your first drink and can last for more than 60 minutes.

Trade names for Disulfiram are Antabuse, Abstensil, Anthetyl, Aversan and Thiosan. The drug is recommended to be taken once a day, in the morning. It should be used together with professional addiction help during recovery, and under no circumstances should you take it without medical supervision just because you’ve heard about it and think it might help.

WHEN SHOULD I NOT TAKE DISULFIRAM?

It’s very important to be aware that Disulfiram shouldn’t be used if you are allergic to any ingredient in this drug. Also, you should take it if you know you have heart problems or any type of mental disorders.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS TO TAKING DISULFIRAM?

Any medication can trigger some side effects, Disulfiram is no different. Now, the drug is used with the intention to create a bad state after drinking to help the alcohol refrain himself or herself from drinking. However, if by any chance you experience these less common or rare effects you should talk to a doctor as soon as possible: vision problems and eye problems, changes in mood and thinking, tingling in hand and feet, problems with urination or stool, lack of libido, headaches, metallic taste, fatigue or skin allergies.

IS DISULFIRAM ADDICTIVE?

Thankfully, Disulfiram has no addictive properties so it’s in no way addictive.