Antabuse Generic Name: What is It and How Does it Work?

Antabuse, also known as disulfiram, is a drug used to treat alcohol abuse and addiction. It has been in use since the 1950s and is still widely prescribed today. Antabuse is a generic name for the drug, and it is used to help people stop drinking by making them severely ill if they drink alcohol while taking the medication.

How It Works

Antabuse works by blocking the enzyme that breaks down alcohol in the body. When alcohol is consumed while taking Antabuse, it causes a build-up of acetaldehyde, a toxic by-product of alcohol metabolism. This build-up of acetaldehyde can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, and flushing.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for Antabuse is 250mg to 500mg per day. It is typically taken once per day and should not be taken with alcohol. It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor or pharmacist when taking Antabuse.

Side Effects

While Antabuse is generally safe, there can be some side effects. These include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and headache. If you experience these or any other side effects, it is important to speak to your doctor immediately.

Interactions

Antabuse can interact with other medications, so it is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking. Antabuse should not be taken with alcohol or drugs that contain alcohol, such as cough syrups or cold medications.

Alcohol Use

It is important to avoid alcohol while taking Antabuse. If you do consume alcohol, the unpleasant side effects will occur. It is important to remember that Antabuse is not a cure for alcoholism, but it can help to reduce the craving for alcohol.

Conclusion

Antabuse is a generic name for the drug, disulfiram, which is used to treat alcohol abuse and addiction. It blocks the enzyme that breaks down alcohol in the body, causing a build-up of a toxic by-product, which can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms. Antabuse should be taken as prescribed and should not be taken with alcohol or drugs that contain alcohol. It is important to speak to your doctor before taking Antabuse, and to avoid alcohol while taking the medication.