What is Antabuse and What Does It Do?

Antabuse, also known as disulfiram, is a medication that is used to help people who are struggling with alcoholism. It works by blocking the body’s ability to process alcohol. This means that if a person takes Antabuse and then drinks alcohol, they will experience unpleasant and potentially dangerous side effects, such as nausea, headache, vomiting, and blurred vision. In this way, Antabuse can help people to stay away from alcohol and maintain sobriety.

How Does Antabuse Work?

When alcohol is consumed, it is broken down in the body into a substance called acetaldehyde. Acetaldehyde is toxic and can cause severe hangover symptoms. Antabuse blocks an enzyme in the body that breaks down acetaldehyde, so when someone drinks alcohol while taking Antabuse, the acetaldehyde builds up in their system and causes unpleasant side effects. This makes it difficult for a person to drink alcohol, which in turn helps them to stay away from it and maintain sobriety.

Who Should Take Antabuse?

Antabuse is not for everyone. It should only be taken under the direction of a doctor or healthcare provider. It is generally prescribed for people who have had difficulty stopping drinking and have tried other forms of treatment, such as counseling and/or support groups. It is important to note that Antabuse should only be taken if a person is committed to abstaining from alcohol. If a person drinks alcohol while taking Antabuse, they could be putting themselves at risk of serious health problems, such as liver damage.

Side Effects of Antabuse

Antabuse can cause some side effects, including nausea, headache, vomiting, and blurred vision. Other side effects can include skin rash, low blood pressure, dizziness, and fast heart rate. It is important to talk to a doctor or healthcare provider about any side effects a person is experiencing while taking Antabuse.

Precautions and Warnings

Antabuse should not be taken by people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it could be harmful to the baby. It is also not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, kidney disease, or diabetes. Additionally, people with a history of mental illness should not take Antabuse, as it can worsen certain mental health conditions. It is important to talk to a doctor or healthcare provider before taking Antabuse to ensure it is safe for a person to take.

How to Take Antabuse

Antabuse is typically taken as a single dose once a day. It is important to follow the doctor or healthcare provider’s instructions when taking Antabuse. It is also important to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Antabuse, as it could cause dangerous side effects.

Conclusion

Antabuse is a medication that is used to help people who are struggling with alcoholism. It works by blocking the body’s ability to process alcohol. When alcohol is consumed, it is broken down in the body into a substance called acetaldehyde. Antabuse blocks an enzyme in the body that breaks down acetaldehyde, so when someone drinks alcohol while taking Antabuse, the acetaldehyde builds up in their system and causes unpleasant side effects. It is important to talk to a doctor or healthcare provider before taking Antabuse to ensure it is safe for a person to take.