How it works
Antabuse interferes with the metabolism of alcohol in the body. It prevents the conversion of alcohol at the acetyldehyde stage and the increasing levels of acetyldehyde causes unpleasant symptoms.
Guidelines for usage
Follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or as mentioned in the instruction booklet/product label.
Always use only as prescribed. Never exceed the dosage.
Antabuse may be used with or without food.
Doctors recommend that you swallow the whole tablet/capsules with a glass of water unless it is specified that it can be broken or chewed.
NOTE: Use only if prescribed to you and intended for your use. Do not share with others.
Missed Dose
It is common for people to forget their dosage times and miss doses.
Do not panic if you have missed a dose.
Instead, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not double up or take more than what the doctor has prescribed.
How & where do I store Antabuse?
The medicine label contains detailed instructions regarding safe storage of the medication. Most medicines are best stored at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Some medications may require to be refrigerated. Please check the product label.
Keep it away from the reach of children. Ensure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight or moisture.
Ask your pharmacist about safely disposing off medication that is past expiry date.
Overdose Related Information
If you accidentally consume more medication than what was prescribed, then contact an emergency healthcare center immediately.
Safety Information
Safety Information/ Warning Precautions
Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before you start using any new medication.
Ensure that you mention the following:
Any prior serious ailment, lifestyle disease or surgery
All the prescription drugs, OTC health supplements, herbal supplements that you are using currently
Your alcohol intake and whether you smoke or not
Any history of a known allergic reaction to prescription drugs or food
You have liver disease,
kidney disease;
thyroid disease;
diabetes;
brain damage or mental disorders;
epilepsy or another seizure disorder
This will allow your healthcare provider to prescribe the apt dosage of the medication for you.
To be avoided
You must avoid using Antabuse if it you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you are using drugs or medications that contain alcohol.
Using Alcohol
Antabuse must not be used for at least 12 hours after drinking alcohol. The reaction of the drug will stay in the body for several weeks after you stop therapy.
Important Information for Pregnant Women
Antabuse is categorized under FDA pregnancy category C.
Discuss the potential risks with your healthcare provider before using the medication.
Certain medications may be found in breast milk so speak to your child’s doctor to rule out any possibilities of risk.