Drug Class: What is Antabuse and why is it prescribed?

Antabuse is Disulfiram and used to treat chronic alcoholism.

It causes unpleasant effects when even small amounts of alcohol are consumed. These effects include flushing of the face, headache, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, weakness, blurred vision, mental confusion, sweating, choking, breathing difficulty, and anxiety. These effects begin about 10 minutes after alcohol enters the body and last for 1 hour or more.

Antabuse, Disulfiram is not a cure for alcoholism, but discourages drinking. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.