What is the onset and duration of Antabuse therapy?

Antabuse, also known as disulfiram, is a medication used to support the treatment of chronic alcoholism by causing unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed. The onset of Antabuse therapy is generally around two weeks after initiation of treatment. This is the time it takes for the medication to build up in the system sufficiently for its effects to occur.

The duration of action, or how long the effects persist, can vary based on individual metabolism and other factors, but the therapeutic effects are clinically relevant and most pronounced after this two-week mark. During this time, patients must avoid alcohol to prevent experiencing adverse reactions, which include flushing, nausea, and palpitations.

This timeframe is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients to understand, as it allows for proper counseling regarding alcohol consumption and sets expectations for the therapeutic effects of the medication.