What Is Antabuse and Is It a Controlled Substance?
What Is Antabuse?
Antabuse (disulfiram) is a medication that is used to help people with alcohol addiction. It works by making people extremely sick if they consume alcohol while taking the medication. This discourages them from drinking and helps them stay sober. Antabuse is only meant to be taken under the guidance of a doctor.
How Does Antabuse Work?
Antabuse works by blocking the breakdown of alcohol in the body. When alcohol is metabolized, a toxic byproduct called acetaldehyde is produced. Antabuse prevents the body from breaking down the acetaldehyde, which causes a buildup of the toxic substance in the blood. This buildup makes people feel very sick if they drink alcohol, which helps to discourage them from drinking.
Is Antabuse a Controlled Substance?
Antabuse is not a controlled substance, meaning it is not regulated by the government. It is available by prescription only, but it is not classified as a controlled substance. This means that it can be prescribed and dispensed without any extra restrictions or regulations.
What Are the Side Effects of Antabuse?
Common side effects of Antabuse include: headache, skin rash, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. More serious side effects of Antabuse can include liver damage, seizures, and a decrease in white blood cells. If you experience any of these side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately.
What Are the Risks of Taking Antabuse?
The most serious risk of taking Antabuse is the risk of overdose. Taking too much Antabuse can cause serious health complications and even death. Additionally, taking Antabuse with certain other medications can cause serious interactions. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Antabuse to make sure it is safe for you.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Antabuse?
If you miss a dose of Antabuse, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What Should I Do If I Overdose on Antabuse?
If you think you have overdosed on Antabuse, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an Antabuse overdose can include difficulty breathing, confusion, and seizures. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Conclusion
Antabuse is a medication used to help people with alcohol addiction. It works by making people very sick when they drink alcohol while taking the medication. Antabuse is not a controlled substance and is available by prescription only. It has a number of side effects, some of which can be serious. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Antabuse to ensure it is safe for you.