Antabuse Generic Names
Antabuse, commonly known as disulfiram, is a medication primarily used to treat chronic alcoholism. This drug is a deterrent therapy that causes unpleasant reactions when alcohol is consumed. Other names for disulfiram include Esperal and Teturam, used interchangeably in some regions. The primary purpose of these medications is to discourage alcohol consumption through negative reinforcement.
Antabuse interrupts the metabolism of alcohol, leading to an accumulation of acetaldehyde in the bloodstream. This chemical buildup triggers adverse reactions, including nausea, vomiting, headache, and palpitations. As a result, individuals on this medication often develop an aversion to alcohol. Disulfiram is not metabolized into other compounds but remains active in the body until excreted, making its effects long-lasting.
Dosage Information
The typical starting dose of Antabuse is 500 mg daily for one to two weeks. This dosage may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerance. After the initial period, the dose often decreases to 250 mg daily as maintenance. It’s critical for patients to adhere strictly to the prescribed regimen.
Antabuse should be taken in the morning with water, irrespective of meals. Skipping doses or self-adjusting the dosage can compromise the effectiveness of the therapy. Alcohol should be avoided completely while taking disulfiram to prevent serious adverse effects.
Who Can and Cannot Take Antabuse
Antabuse suits individuals committed to abstaining from alcohol. Candidates must be informed of the potential reactions caused by alcohol consumption. Antabuse is contraindicated in individuals with severe heart disease, psychosis, or known hypersensitivity to disulfiram or its components.
Patients should be evaluated for other medical conditions that might contraindicate its use. Those with a history of stroke or diabetes must discuss these conditions with their healthcare provider before starting Antabuse.
Missed Dose
In case of a missed dose, patients should take it as soon as they remember, unless it is near the time for the next dose. In such cases, they should skip the missed dose to avoid double dosing. Consistent daily intake is crucial for optimal treatment results.
Adverse Effects
Antabuse may cause drowsiness, headache, and a metallic taste. These are common and usually subside as the body adjusts. Serious reactions, such as optic neuritis, neuropathy, and liver problems, require immediate medical attention.
The occurrence of an alcohol-disulfiram reaction is a significant adverse event, marked by flushing, chest pain, and vomiting. These symptoms can occur as soon as ten minutes after consuming alcohol and may last for several hours.
Purchase Antabuse No Prescription
It’s crucial to note that Antabuse should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Purchasing Antabuse without a prescription is not recommended, as unsupervised use can lead to severe complications. Reliable information about Antabuse and its clinical guidelines can be found on reputable sites such as the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Self-medicating with Antabuse is unsafe due to the need for medical evaluation and monitoring. It’s vital to consult a healthcare provider for guidance and to obtain a legitimate prescription.
Dosage | Indication |
---|---|
500 mg | Initial Therapy |
250 mg | Maintenance Therapy |
Antabuse remains a critical tool in the treatment of alcohol dependency. Its effectiveness depends on patient commitment and adherence to prescribed dosages. By collaborating with healthcare providers, individuals can utilize this medication to achieve sobriety and improved health outcomes.