DISULFIRAM
It inhibits the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase. As a result concentration of acetaldehyde in blood rises and a number of distressing symptoms are produced when alcohol is ingested. These are flushing, burning sensation, throbbing headache, prespiration, uneasiness, dizziness, vomiting, visual disturbances, mental confusion, postural fainting and circulatory collapse. It can be used as an aversion technique in chronic alcoholics who are motivated and sincerely desire to leave the habit.Chronic alcoholism.
1 gm on 1st day, 0.75 gm on 2nd day, 0.5 gm on 3rd day & 0.25 gm subsequently. Sensitization to alcohol develops after 2-3 hrs. of first dose and lasts for several days after stopping it.
Pregnancy, cardiac failure, psychosis or drug addiction.Coronary artery disease.
Diabetes, epilepsy, renal hepatic or respiratory disease. Paediatrics: Reduced dose necessary. Pregnancy: Should not be used. Lactation: Should not be used. Elderly: Reduced dose may be necessary.
Rashes, metallic taste,nervousness, malaise,abdominal upset, reduced libido. Drowsiness.
Enhances effect of chlordiazeposi-de, diazepam, phenytoin, isoniazide, anticoagulants.
