Antabuse
This agent is utilized to support addiction recovery and is indicated to address alcohol consumption by inducing sensitivity.
- Category
- Addiction Recovery
- Active ingredient
- Disulfiram
- Supply
- Rx
- Route
- Oral use
- Form
- Tablet; Effervescent tablet
- Strengths
- 250 · 500mg
Antabuse details
- Condition
- Alcohol Dependence
- Therapeutic class
- Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Inhibitor
- Pharmacological class
- Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Inhibitor
- Precautions and warnings
- monitor liver function regularly
- Minor side effects
- drowsiness; fatigue; metallic taste; headache
- Moderate side effects
- skin rash; diarrhoea
- Dosage forms
- Tablet; Effervescent tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Supply category
- Prescription only (specially controlled medicine)
- Manufacturer
- Advanz Pharma
- Onset Time
- Variable
- Duration
- 3–14 days
- Storage instructions
- Store at room temperature.
- Drug interactions
- alcohol; metronidazole; warfarin; phenytoin
- Age restrictions
- Not recommended for children.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Pregnancy: Not recommended. Breastfeeding: Not recommended.
Contraindications
severe heart disease; psychosis; hypersensitivity to thiuram derivatives; concurrent alcohol use
Serious side effects
hepatitis, requires immediate medical attention; polyneuropathy, requires immediate medical attention; psychotic reaction, requires immediate medical attention
Patient summary
This agent is utilized to support addiction recovery and is indicated to address alcohol consumption by inducing sensitivity.
Mechanism of action
Disulfiram interferes with the metabolism of alcohol by blocking the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase. This results in the accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body, causing unpleasant physical reactions when alcohol is consumed, thereby deterring alcohol intake.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Antabuse
Antabuse is the leading brand name for Disulfiram, a medication primarily used in the management of alcohol dependence. Produced by Advanz Pharma, this product is supplied as a tablet in strengths of 250mg and 500mg. The medication is intended to support individuals working towards long-term sobriety goals within a routine.
Antabuse availability in Asia
Antabuse is registered across 14 markets including Hong Kong, Thailand and Malaysia, with availability also in the Philippines, Indonesia and Taiwan. While generic Disulfiram is often manufactured in India and can be more affordable for expats located far from a pharmacy, maintaining consistency with a familiar brand like Antabuse may be preferred. This medication is best used under a doctor’s care to monitor progress and adjust treatment as required.