It is also not a treatment for withdrawal symptoms. The treatment is useful because it discourages people with a drinking problem from consuming alcohol. advice about side effects. Tell your Disulfiram blocks an enzyme that is involved in metabolizing alcohol intake. The primary pharmacologic action of disulfiram involves the disruption of … Disulfiram Mechanism of Action. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. Version: 2.01.The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Drinking on Antabuse produces several unpleasant side effects, including:These symptoms occur because disulfiram inhibits an enzyme called aldehyde dehydrogenase. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. The mechanism of action performed by disulfiram, or how the medication actually creates feelings of sickness when taken with alcohol, involves altering a chemical process in the body. His passion for medical education led to his journey in medical writing. These symptoms include:sweating, increased thirst, swelling, rapid weight gain;chest pain, shortness of breath (even with mild exertion);fast or pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest;confusion, weakness, spinning sensation, feeling unsteady; orMore severe symptoms may occur when disulfiram and large amounts of alcohol are used together, such as severe chest pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, liver problems--nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. More than half a century later, Antabuse is a frequently prescribed deterrent in people with alcohol dependence. In the 1950s, disulfiram (Antabuse) was approved by the FDA for use as a deterrent to drinking alcohol. Disulfiram should be stopped if such symptoms appear. It is also contraindicated in people with hypersensitivity to certain chemicals used in pesticides and the rubber industry.Individuals using disulfiram should consult a physician if they experience severe or persistent symptoms, including:Here are some precautions for the safe use of this alcohol antagonist:The Antabuse effect of unpleasant symptoms has made it a widely used treatment for alcohol abuse. The medication can remain in the body for up to a week or even more. Select one or more newsletters to continue. WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. This medication is an oral treatment that is used as an alcohol deterrent. If you have any questions about disulfiram, please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider. Disulfiram may increase the effect of warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven) and increase the risk of bleeding. An incision needs to be made under local anesthesia and a pouch created to insert the Antabuse tablets. Drug Class: Disulfiram is a carbamate derivative that increases acetaldehyde levels in the blood if alcohol is ingested after administration of the drug. Several randomized, placebo-controlled trials support disulfiram as a cocaine pharmacotherapy. The mechanism of action of disulfiram and its implications for the management of alcohol dependence are discussed. doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect: Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 2 Sep 2020), Cerner Multum™ (updated 1 Sep 2020), … Dr. Okhifun is a passionate medical doctor, with over five years’ experience as a general practitioner. Disulfiram produces very unpleasant side effects when combined with alcohol in the body.Disulfiram is used together with behavior modification, psychotherapy, and counseling support to help you stop drinking. Even small amounts of alcohol can produce unpleasant symptoms while disulfiram is in your body. Disulfiram is sometimes given for up to several months or years.Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Available for Android and iOS devices.We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information - Disulfiram prevents an enzyme in the liver known as aldehyde dehydrogenase from breaking down the alcohol properly.