Drug Uses

ANTABUSE is very useful in treating alcoholism and it works by producing sensitivity to alcohol which results in a highly unpleasant reaction when the patient under treatment ingests even small amounts of alcohol and blocking the oxidation of alcohol at the acetaldehyde stage.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.
Please take it by mouth and do not use it within 12 hours of alcohol consumption. Be cautious from any kind of alcohol while using ANTABUSE.

Drug Class and Mechanism

ANTABUSE helps to fight alcoholism, but it is not a complete cure and it works by producing sensitivity to alcohol which results in a highly unpleasant reaction when the patient under treatment ingests even small amounts of alcohol and blocking the oxidation of alcohol at the acetaldehyde stage.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.

Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store ANTABUSE at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F(15 and 30 degrees C). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using ANTABUSE if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you have conditions like heart disease, liver or kidney disease, psychiatric problems, diabetes, any allergies (especially to rubber or pesticides).

Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor.
The drug may increase the risk of getting dizziness or drowsiness. This risk greatly increases if you combine it with alcoholic beverages. So please avoid them while using the drug. Also, avoid undertaking any tasks which require mental alertness (driving, handling heavy machinery etc).
Please inform your lab technician or surgeon that you are taking ANTABUSE before you undergo any emergency surgical procedure including dental operations.
If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using ANTABUSE to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.
If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using ANTABUSE as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.