Antabuse (Disulfiram) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 3, 2012

Antabuse

Liver Disease »

What is liver disease?

Liver disease is any disturbance of liver function that causes illness. The liver is responsible for many critical functions within the body and should it become diseased or injured, the loss of those functions can cause significant damage to the body. Liver disease is also referred to as hepatic disease.

Liver disease is a broad term that covers all the potential problems that may occur to cause the liver to fail to perform its designated functions. Usually, more than 75% or three quarters of liver tissue needs to be affected before decrease in function occurs.

The liver the largest solid organ in the body; and is also considered a gland because among its many functions, it makes and secretes bile. The liver is located in the upper right portion of the abdomen protected by the rib cage. It has two main lobes that are made up of tiny lobules. The liver cells have two different sources of blood supply. The hepatic ...

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ANTABUSE
(disulfiram) Tablet

WARNING

Disulfiram should never be administered to a patient when he is in a state of alcohol intoxication, or without his full knowledge.

The physician should instruct relatives accordingly.

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Disulfiram is an alcohol antagonist drug.

Chemical Name: bis(diethylthiocarbamoyl) disulfide.

Structural Formula:

C₁₀H₂₀N₂S₄ M.W. 296.54

Disulfiram occurs as a white to off-white, odorless, and almost tasteless powder, soluble in water to the extent of about 20 mg in 100 mL, and in alcohol to the extent of about 3.8 g in 100 mL.

Each tablet for oral administration contains 250 mg or 500 mg disulfiram, USP. Tablets also contain colloidal silicon dioxide, anhydrous lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, and stearic acid.

What are the possible side effects of disulfiram (Antabuse)?

Severe and sometimes fatal liver problems have occurred in patients taking disulfiram even without a prior history of liver problems.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking disulfiram and seek emergency medical attention:

an allergic reaction (swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; shortness of breath; closing of your throat; or hives);
seizures;
extreme tiredness;
dark urine;
yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice);
large appetite...

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What are the precautions when taking disulfiram (Antabuse)?

Before taking disulfiram, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to thiuram or thiuram-related chemicals (found in pesticides and rubber); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: severe heart/blood vessel disease (e.g., coronary artery disease), certain mental/mood condition (psychosis).

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: diabetes, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), brain disorders (e.g., seizures,...

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Last reviewed on RxList: 4/13/2009
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.