Deal With A Disulfiram Reaction

This is the third and last article about disulfiram. This time we will discuss disulfiram reaction. What we are talking about is the reaction that will occur when disulfiram and alcohol are combined. How should such a reaction be treated? One method has been to give the patient ascorbic acidI. However, it is generally believed that this medication does not help to treat the TETD-alcohol reaction except in mild cases. Then, this treatment has been quite effective.

An example of a mild case would be one where the patient is in good shape otherwise so that his heart rate stays under 100 beats a minute. In a case like this, you should give the patient 1g of asorbic acid and the symptoms should disappear in no more than minutes.

For patients with more severe reactions, where the heart rate jumps up to around 150 beats per minute, it is suggested that the patient receive 1g of asorbic acid intraveneously, and the symptoms should disappear in under five minutes. A few other drugs which will help mitigate a TEDH or disulfiram reaction are 50-100mg of diphenhyclramine (Benadryl) taken intravenously, or chlordiazepoxide (Librium) or other barbiturates.

How TETD Affects The Family

Excessive drinking is a family problem, and the whole family must be included in the solution. TETD is just one part of an overall rehabilitation program, including organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous, and family support. It is important for the patient to not only get sober, but stay sober. For this reason, a person close to the patient should be there to help with the use of TETD. It is important to watch and make sure the correct dosage is being taken. This will take up to a year to be totally effective. From then on, it is easier for a sober individual to take care of their own rehabilitation.

After a year or so, the patient should be completely sober. Nevertheless, he should always keep some disulfiram on hand in case he starts drinking again. Then it is very easy to continue disulfiram therapy. Anyway, It is a good habit to keep some on hand in case another problem should show up. A disulfiram reaction can be dealt with, and there is no reason for panic if the patient unfortunately should be tempted to take a drink or two when he is treated with TETD..

Terje Brooks Ellingsen wants his readers to learn more about alcoholism treatment by giving them alcoholism facts and information.