Antabuse (disulfiram) can cause a range of side effects, from mild to severe. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach or belly pain, drowsiness, headache, a metallic or garlic-like aftertaste, tiredness, flushing, sweating, rash, and decreased libido[1][2][3][6][7]. Many of these side effects may lessen as the body adjusts to the medication, but persistent or bothersome symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider[3].
Skin reactions such as eruptions and rash, depression, confusion, dizziness, rapid weight gain, and sexual side effects (such as decreased libido in men) are possible[2][6][7]. Some individuals may also experience brain fog, weakness, and numbness or tingling in the extremities[2][3].
Serious side effects, although less common, include severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, severe rash or hives), nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy, optic neuritis, loss of vision, pain when moving eyes), mood or mental changes (such as paranoia or hallucinations), and liver damage (symptoms include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, light-colored stools, severe abdominal pain, and unusual tiredness)[1][3][5][6]. If any of these occur, immediate medical attention is warranted.
A unique property of Antabuse is the disulfiram-alcohol reaction. When alcohol is ingested with Antabuse, it causes severe and unpleasant symptoms within 10 to 30 minutes, including flushing, nausea and vomiting, sweating, headache, chest pain, palpitations, rapid heartbeat, confusion, blurred vision, and even collapse, arrhythmias, respiratory depression, or death in rare cases[4][5]. This reaction can occur even with small amounts of alcohol, including those hidden in foods, medicines, or topical products like aftershaves[5][7]. The intensity of the reaction varies with each individual and the amount of alcohol and Antabuse consumed[5].
Antabuse should not be used in individuals who are currently intoxicated or without their full knowledge, and should be used with caution in those with chronic health conditions such as liver, kidney, or cardiovascular diseases[5].
References
- [1] Disulfiram: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures … – WebMD
- [2] Antabuse: Uses, Side Effects, and Interactions
- [3] Antabuse Side Effects: Common, Severe, Long Term – Drugs.com
- [4] Disulfiram (Antabuse): Side Effects & Uses for Alcohol Use Disorder
- [5] Antabuse (Disulfiram): Side Effects, Uses, Dosage, Interactions …
- [6] 9 Disulfiram Side Effects (And How to Manage Them) – GoodRx
- [7] Disulfiram | Royal Free London
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