What is the Antabuse Pill?
Antabuse, also known as disulfiram, is a pill taken daily to help people who are trying to quit drinking alcohol. It works by making it harder for the person to drink any alcohol, as it causes them to become ill if they do. Antabuse is a prescription medication and it is only available with a doctor’s prescription.
How Does Antabuse Work?
Antabuse works by blocking the enzyme in the body that breaks down alcohol. When alcohol is consumed, the body breaks it down into a substance called acetaldehyde. This is then broken down further into acetic acid. Antabuse blocks the enzyme that breaks down the acetaldehyde, so that it builds up in the body and causes unpleasant symptoms.
What are the Side Effects of Antabuse?
Common side effects of Antabuse include nausea, vomiting, headache, drowsiness, and fatigue. These side effects usually clear up within a few days, but in some cases they may last longer. More serious side effects of Antabuse include liver damage, allergic reactions, and low blood pressure. If these more serious side effects occur, it is important to contact a doctor immediately.
Who Should Take Antabuse?
Antabuse is recommended for people who have an alcohol use disorder, and are trying to quit drinking. It is not recommended for people who do not have an alcohol use disorder, as it can be dangerous. It is also not recommended for pregnant women or people with certain medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease.
How to Take Antabuse
Antabuse should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. It is usually taken once a day, with or without food. It is important to take Antabuse exactly as directed, as taking too much can cause serious side effects. It is also important to not drink any alcohol while taking Antabuse, as this can cause serious health problems.
What to Avoid While Taking Antabuse
It is important to avoid drinking any alcohol while taking Antabuse, as this can cause serious health problems. It is also important to avoid taking certain medications while taking Antabuse, such as sedatives or sleeping pills, as this can also cause serious health problems. It is important to talk to a doctor before taking any medications while taking Antabuse.
What to Do if You Miss a Dose of Antabuse
If a dose of Antabuse is missed, it is important to take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, it is best to skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regular time. It is important not to double up on doses, as this can cause serious health problems.
Conclusion
Antabuse is a prescription medication used to help people with an alcohol use disorder quit drinking. It is important to take it as prescribed, and not to drink any alcohol while taking it, as this can cause serious health problems. It is also important to avoid taking certain medications while taking Antabuse, as this can also cause serious health problems.