The drug acts by creating a negative reaction in people who drink alcohol. The drug interferes with the production of acetaldehydem a toxic substance which leads to hangover symptoms in heavy drinkers. The body usually oxidises acetaldehydem to form acetic acid. But the drug stops the oxidation process, which leads to many severe and mild reactions. This would make an alcoholic averse to alcohol consumption.
When using Antabuse, a person should always be cautious. One should always stick to the doctor’s prescription. When taking the medicine, a person should never use alcohol as it can lead to unpleasant effects. The drug has to be used only by persons for whom it has been advised or it can lead to many compactions if used by others.
There are many situations when the doctor alters the medicine or the drug may be discarded for another medicine. A person having disease of the kidney or liver, thyroid disease, mental disorder, brain damage, thyroid disease and epilepsy. Though disulfiram is not known to cause harm to the newborn it is good to consult the physician before he prescribes the drug. On the other hand, it is known that the medicine may pass into breast-milk. So a breast-feeding woman should never use disulfiram.
One important thing that has to be kept in mind by persons is that they should never consume alcohol while using Antabuse. If Alcohol is taken along with the drug, a person can come across fast heartbeat, flushing, thirst, nausea, chest pain, low pressure and vertigo. It is advised that Antabuse drugs should not be taken for about 12 hours after consuming alcohol.
A person taking disulfiram should also be cautious of the products that contain alcohol. Always take care when using cold or cough drugs, tonics, vinegars, sauces, mouthwashes, aftershaves and other products that contain alcohol. One should also avoid contact with paint thinners, stains, solvents, lacquers, perfumes, colognes and antiseptics. The presence of alcohol in these products can also lead to various reactions.
In case of using antibiotic, or going for dental treatment, the doctor should be told before hand as it can lead to many complications. It is better to tell the doctor if a person is using isoniazid, monoamine oxidase inhibitor, benzodiazepine, tricyclic antidepressant, warfarin, metronidazole, theophylline, phenytoin and lithium.
As like all drugs, disulfiram also comes with many side effects. The serious side effects that come with Antabuse include allergic reactions such as tongue, lips, mouth and face, breathing issues and hives. The other serious side effects are extreme tiredness, yellow skin or eye, dark urine, appetite changes, dizziness, weakness, coordination loss, vomiting and diarrhea.
The minor side effects may be rashes, acne, drowsiness, tiredness, headache, impotence, sore tongue and metallic taste.
Disulfiram has been approved for treating alcohol abuse by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In many countries, the drug has been prescribed for persons who want to quit alcohols.