Disulfiram
INFORMATION ABOUT DISULFIRAM
Disulfiram Uses
Disulfiram is used in the treatment of alcohol addiction.
How Disulfiram works
Disulfiram blocks the chemical which breaks the converted form of alcohol in the body. This leads to an increased level of converted form of alcohol in the body causing bad physical features while drinking alcohol.
CONTENT DETAILS
Last updated
11 Jun 2025 | 01:48 PM (UTC)
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Medicine brands for Disulfiram
Expert advice for Disulfiram
- Disulfiram is used together with behavior modification, psychotherapy, and counseling support to help you stop drinking.
- It works best for patients who can achieve initial abstinence of at least 12 hours, are committed to maintaining abstinence, and agree to take the medication.
- While taking this medication, avoid alcohol in all forms including beer, wine, aftershave lotions, mouthwash, vinegar, certain desserts, colognes, and liquid medications.
- When you first start taking it, you may feel dizzy, confused, tired, and weak. Don't drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you.
- You may notice an aftertaste of either garlic or metal when you start taking Disulfiram. Inform your doctor if this does not go away.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, liver or kidney disease, psychiatric problems, diabetes, or if you're allergic to latex rubber or pesticides.
- Do not take it if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Disulfiram
Yes, Disulfiram is safe if used at prescribed doses for the prescribed duration in a hospital or specialized clinic as advised by your special doctor
No, Disulfiram is not an over-the-counter medicine. Disulfiram treatment for alcohol withdrawal should be initiated only in a hospital or specialized clinic and by experienced doctors only. Patients should follow advice of the doctor regarding its use
No, Disulfiram is not addictive. It is used to treat alcohol addiction and chronic alcoholism
Yes, Disulfiram works. Disulfiram is an aldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitor. It works by blocking the processing of alcohol in the body causing unpleasant feeling leading to alcohol withdrawal
Disulfiram works for chronic alcoholics who are cooperative and willing to give up alcoholism. Patients should follow advice of the doctor regarding its use
Disulfiram blocks the processing of alcohol in the body causing unpleasant feeling due to these unpleasant episodes, alcoholics abstain from alcohol Therefore, patients may avoid consuming alcohol to avoid unpleasant reactions upon consuming alcohol even days after stopping Disulfiram. It may not have any direct effects on cravings
Yes, Disulfiram works on alcohol withdrawal as soon as you start the treatment