Esperal 250mg Tablet 10s

Side Effects of Esperal 250mg Tablet 10s

Drowsiness, fatigue, lassitude, psychotic reactions, peripheral and optic neuropathies, hepatotoxicity, garlic-like or metallic after-taste, GI upset, body odour, bad breath, headache, impotence. Potentially Fatal: Respiratory depression, CV collapse, arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, acute CHF, convulsions, sudden death.

Drug Interactions

Inhibits hepatic enzymes thus interferes with metabolism of other drugs; enhances anticoagulant effects of phenytoin and coumarin. Adverse CNS effects may be precipitated with concurrent metronidazole, INH or MAOI therapy. Tricyclic antidepressants exacerbate symptoms of disulfiram alcohol reaction. Potentially Fatal: Disulfiram alcohol interaction: Intense flushing of neck and face accompanied by heat and sweating, tachycardia, palpitation, dyspnoea, dizziness, headache, HTN initially and then hypotension; GI disturbances, exhaustion, convulsions and cardiopulmonary arrest.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity, CVS diseases; peripheral neuropathy, psychosis. Not to be used in patients with alcohol intoxication.

Mechanism of Action

Disulfiram inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, the oxidative enzyme of acetaldehyde, a metabolite of alcohol. The latter is accumulated in the blood, thus producing unpleasant symptoms of disulfiram-alcohol reaction when a patient has taken small amounts of alcohol. Onset: 12 hrs. Duration: 1-2 wk after last dose. Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the GIT; peak plasma concentrations after 8-10 hrs (oral). Metabolism: Reduction to diethyldithiocarbamate by the glutathione reductase system in the erythrocytes. Excretion: Urine (as metabolites); exhaled gas (carbon disulphide).

Special Precautions

Diabetes, epilepsy, hepatic/renal impairment, hypothyroidism, cerebral damage, elderly. Liver function and blood tests should be monitored regularly. Pregnancy and lactation.

How to Use

Take orally with food and water, as directed by your physician.

How to Store

Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture.

Safety Concerns

• Alcohol: Avoid during treatment.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended.
• Pregnancy: Contraindicated.
• Liver/Kidney: Use with caution.

Content Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only. Please consult your doctor before use.