Drug guide

Disulfiram

Disulfiram (dye-SUL-fi-ram) is used to help overcome your drinking problem. It is not a cure for alcoholism, but rather will discourage you from drinking. Disulfiram is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form: Oral Tablets (U.S. and Canada)

Disulfiram is used to treat chronic alcoholism. It causes unpleasant effects when even small amounts of alcohol are consumed. These effects include flushing of the face, headache, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, weakness, blurred vision, mental confusion, sweating, choking, breathing difficulty, and anxiety. These effects begin about 10 minutes after alcohol enters the body and last for 1 hour or more. Disulfiram is not a cure for alcoholism, but discourages drinking. Disulfiram is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Disulfiram comes in tablets to take by mouth. It should be taken once a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Disulfiram exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. If you cannot swallow the tablets, crush them and mix the medication with water, coffee, tea, milk, soft drink, or fruit juice.

Brand names:
- Antabuse
- Disulfiram