How Do You Handle A Disulfiram Reaction

In the third and last article about disulfiram we will discuss disulfiram reaction. It is generally believed that ascorbic acid does not help treat the TETD-ethanol reaction. However, it has been seen that in the case of a mild reaction, asorbic acid has been effective in treating it.

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.

Even after the patient has been completely sober for a year or more, he or she should keep some disulfiram or TETD on hand in case of a relapse. If he or she unfortunately starts drinking again, it is pretty easy to continue TETD therapy. It is always good to keep some on hand in case another problem should occur. It's also good to know that if the patient unfortunately should be tempted to drink alcohol while on TETD, even a disulfiram reaction can be dealt with.

David Richards likes to provide his readers with alcoholism treatment resources as well as other alcoholism facts and tips.