Addiction/dependence:
Indications for: Disulfiram
Adjunct in management of chronic alcoholic patients who want to remain sober.
Adult Dosage:
Abstain for at least 12hrs. Initially 500mg once daily for 1–2 weeks then 250mg once daily; max 500mg daily. Continue until patient develops basis for self-control.
Children Dosage:
Not established.
Disulfiram Contraindications:
Severe cardiovascular disease. Psychosis. Allergy to thiuram in pesticides and rubber. Concomitant metronidazole, paraldehyde, alcohol-containing products.
Disulfiram Warnings/Precautions:
Never administer when in a state of alcohol intoxication. Advise family members of alcohol effect. Diabetes. Hypothyroidism. Epilepsy. Cerebral damage. Nephritis. Hepatic cirrhosis or insufficiency. Ethylene dibromide inhalation. Monitor hepatic function, electrolytes, blood, CBCs. Alcohol trial in patients >50yrs: not recommended. Pregnancy. Nursing mothers.
Disulfiram Classification:
Alcohol deterrent.
Disulfiram Interactions:
See Contraindications. Alcohol-like reaction to metronidazole, paraldehyde, alcohol-containing drugs and elixirs, some so-called alcohol-free beverages, tonics, foods, aftershave, back rubs. Potentiates phenytoin, oral anticoagulants, isoniazid.
Adverse Reactions:
Optic, peripheral and polyneuritis; peripheral neuropathy, drowsiness, rash, psychosis, hepatitis.
Note:
Formerly known under the brand name Antabuse.
How Supplied:
Contact supplier
