Antabuse vs Naltrexone: What You Need to Know in 2023

What is Antabuse?

Antabuse, also known as disulfiram, is a medication used to treat people with alcohol abuse disorders. It works by causing an extremely unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed, making it difficult to drink. Antabuse has been used to treat alcohol abuse since the 1950s and it has been proven to be effective.

What is Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is another medication used to treat alcohol abuse disorders. It is an opioid antagonist, which means that it blocks the effects of opioids. Unlike Antabuse, which works by causing an unpleasant reaction to alcohol, Naltrexone works by blocking the pleasure and reward associated with drinking.

How Do Antabuse and Naltrexone Compare?

Both Antabuse and Naltrexone are effective treatments for alcohol abuse disorders. However, there are some key differences between the two. Antabuse works by causing an unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed, while Naltrexone works by blocking the pleasure and reward associated with drinking. In addition, Antabuse is more likely to cause side effects such as drowsiness, tiredness, and headaches, while Naltrexone is generally well-tolerated.

Who Should Use Antabuse?

Antabuse is recommended for people who are unable to abstain from drinking on their own. It is also recommended for people who may have a relapse despite receiving other treatments. Antabuse can help to prevent a relapse by making it difficult to drink due to the unpleasant reaction that it causes when alcohol is consumed.

Who Should Use Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is recommended for people who are able to abstain from drinking on their own but may be at risk of a relapse. Naltrexone works by blocking the pleasure and reward associated with drinking, making it less desirable to drink. It is also recommended for people who have a history of opioid abuse or addiction.

Side Effects of Antabuse and Naltrexone

Both Antabuse and Naltrexone can cause side effects. Common side effects of Antabuse include drowsiness, tiredness, and headaches. Common side effects of Naltrexone include nausea, dizziness, and constipation. It is important to speak to a healthcare professional about the potential side effects of both medications before starting treatment.

Conclusion

Antabuse and Naltrexone are both effective treatments for alcohol abuse disorders. Antabuse works by causing an unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed, while Naltrexone works by blocking the pleasure and reward associated with drinking. Both medications can cause side effects, so it is important to speak to a healthcare professional before starting either treatment.