How does it work?

Disulfiram is an enzyme inhibitor (aldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitor) which interferes with the metabolism of alcohol and leads to an accumulation of acetaldehyde in the blood. The reaction occurs within ten minutes of ingesting alcohol and may last for several hours. The effects include violent flushing, breathlessness, headache, palpitations, tachycardia, nausea and vomiting. Disulfiram is used as an adjunct in the treatment of alcohol dependence in carefully selected and cooperative patients.

What is it used for?

Alcohol dependence

Warning!

Do not drink alcohol whilst taking this medicine.

Use with caution in

Alcoholics who continue to drink

Children

Diabetes

Disease affecting the airways or lungs (respiratory disease)

Epilepsy

Kidney disease

Liver disease

Not to be used in

Coronary heart disease

Heart failure

High blood pressure

History of stroke

Psychiatric disorders

Psychotic illness

Risk of suicide

Stroke

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during breastfeeding. For this reason, the manufacturer states that it should not be used during breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

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