Disulfiram Information
Disulfiram, a prescription drug, is manufactured in various forms such as Tablet. Primarily, it is used for the treatment of Alcoholism.
The optimal dosage of Disulfiram is largely dependent on the individual's body weight, medical history, gender and age. Besides the medical condition it is advised for, the route of administration also plays an important role in determining the correct drug dosage. Detailed information has been provided in the dosage section.
Some other side effects of Disulfiram have been listed ahead. These side effects of Disulfiram are usually temporary and subside with the completion of treatment. Please speak with your doctor if these side effects worsen or persist for a longer duration.
In addition, Disulfiram's effect is Moderate during pregnancy and Severe for lactating mothers. It is important to know if Disulfiram has any effect on the kidney, liver and heart. Information on such adverse effects, if any, has been given in the Disulfiram related warnings section.
Disulfiram is not recommended if you suffer from certain medical conditions as it can have adverse effects. Heart Disease, Psychosis are examples of such conditions. Other contraindications of Disulfiram have been discussed in the sections ahead.
Drug reaction of Disulfiram with other medicines has been reported. A complete list of these interactions is given below.
In addition to these precautions, you may also note that Disulfiram is not safe while driving, and is is not addictive in nature.
Disulfiram Benefits & Uses
Disulfiram is used to treat the following -
Main Benefits
Disulfiram Dosage & How to Take
This is the usual dosage recommended in most common treatment cases. Please remember that every patient and their case is different, so the dosage can be different based on the disease, route of administration, patient's age and medical history.
Find the right dosage based on disease and age
| Age Group | Dosage |
| Adult |
|
| Geriatric |
|
Disulfiram Side Effects
Based on research, the following side effects have been observed when Disulfiram is used -
Severe
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach ache (Read More - Home remedies for stomach pain)
Moderate
- Weakness
- Restlessness
- Fainting
- Visual Disturbance
Mild
- Headache
- Dizziness (Read More - Home Remedies for Dizziness: Quick Tips for Instant Relief)
- Metallic taste in mouth
- Nausea or vomiting
Disulfiram Related Warnings
-
Is the use of Disulfiram safe for pregnant women?
Disulfiram may cause moderate side effects during pregnancy. If you feel its harmful effects, then stop taking this drug immediately, and do not take Disulfiram again without your doctor's advice.
Moderate -
Is the use of Disulfiram safe during breastfeeding?
Taking Disulfiram may lead to serious side effects if you are breastfeeding. Disulfiram should not be taken by breastfeeding women unless prescribed by the doctor.
Severe -
What is the effect of Disulfiram on the Kidneys?
Disulfiram may have mild side effects on the kidneys.
Mild -
What is the effect of Disulfiram on the Liver?
Disulfiram may have mild side effects on the liver. Most people will never see any effect on the liver.
Mild -
What is the effect of Disulfiram on the Heart?
Very few cases of side effects of Disulfiram on the heart have been reported.
Mild
Severe Interaction of Disulfiram with Other Drugs
Disulfiram should not be taken with following medicines due to severe side effects it may cause to patients -
Severe
Moderate
Mild
Disulfiram Contraindications
If you are suffering from any of the following diseases, you should not take Disulfiram unless your doctor advises you to do so -
- Alcoholism
- Jaundice
- Diabetes
- Hypothyroidism
- Heart Disease
- Psychosis
- Liver Disease
Frequently asked Questions about Disulfiram
-
Is this Disulfiram habit forming or addictive?
Disulfiram is not addictive in nature.
No -
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?
No, you should not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking Disulfiram as you may feel sleepy.
Dangerous -
Is it safe?
Yes, but consume Disulfiram only on doctor's advice.
Safe, but take only on Doctor's advise -
Is it able to treat mental disorders?
No, the use of Disulfiram in mental disorders is not effective.
No
Disulfiram Interactions with Food and Alcohol
-
Interaction between Food and Disulfiram
Taking Disulfiram with food is safe.
Safe -
Interaction between Alcohol and Disulfiram
Taking alcohol with Disulfiram can be dangerous.
Severe
See all substitutes for Disulfiram
This medicine data has been created by -
B.Pharma, Pharmacy
7 Years of Experience
References
KD Tripathi. [link]. Seventh Edition. New Delhi, India: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers; 2013: Page No 394
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA): Department of Health [Internet]. Governmet of Australia; Package leaflet information for the user; Antabuse® (disulfiram)
