Esperal 250 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET

Esperal 250 mg Tablet, manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a medication primarily used in the management of chronic alcohol dependence. It serves as an alcohol-abuse deterrent, helping individuals who wish to maintain sobriety.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Esperal 250 mg Tablet
  • Common Name: Disulfiram

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains 250 mg of Disulfiram, USP.
  • Inactive ingredients typically include colloidal silicon dioxide, anhydrous lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, and stearic acid.

• Uses: Esperal is prescribed for the treatment of alcohol addiction. It works by blocking the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, which is responsible for breaking down alcohol in the body. This leads to an accumulation of acetaldehyde when alcohol is consumed, causing highly unpleasant physical reactions such as flushing, headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, and confusion. These adverse effects deter individuals from drinking alcohol. It is used in conjunction with counseling and supportive therapies, and is not a cure for alcoholism.

• Dosage and Administration: Esperal 250 mg Tablet is for oral administration. The initial dosage for adults is typically a maximum of 500 mg daily for one to two weeks, taken as a single dose. The average maintenance dose is usually 250 mg daily, but should not exceed 500 mg daily. It can be taken with or without food. It is crucial that the patient has abstained from alcohol for at least 12 hours before starting treatment.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include headache, drowsiness, fatigue, metallic or garlic-like taste in the mouth, skin rash, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances. More serious side effects, particularly when alcohol is consumed, can lead to severe reactions such as respiratory difficulty, chest pain, palpitations, hypotension, syncope, and potentially life-threatening cardiovascular collapse. Liver problems, indicated by dark urine or jaundice, are also possible.

• Precautions: It is imperative to avoid alcohol in all forms while taking Esperal, including hidden sources like aftershave lotions, mouthwash, vinegar, and certain liquid medications. Esperal should not be given to patients in a state of alcohol intoxication or without their full knowledge. Patients with heart disease, psychosis, lung, liver, or kidney problems, diabetes, or thyroid issues should use it with caution and under medical supervision. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use. This medication may cause drowsiness, so activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, should be avoided.

• Storage: Store Esperal 250 mg Tablets in a cool, dry place, below 25°C, and away from direct sunlight. Keep the medicine out of the reach and sight of children and pets.

ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET contains Disulfiram and is primarily used to treat chronic alcohol dependence. It works by creating a strong aversion to alcohol consumption.

What is ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET used for?

ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET is used to treat chronic alcohol dependence or alcoholism. It acts as a deterrent to drinking alcohol by causing unpleasant physical reactions when even small amounts of alcohol are consumed. It is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes counseling and support.

How does ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET work?

The active ingredient, Disulfiram, works by blocking an enzyme in the body called acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. Normally, this enzyme helps break down alcohol. When Disulfiram blocks it, a toxic substance called acetaldehyde builds up in the blood if alcohol is consumed. This buildup of acetaldehyde leads to highly unpleasant symptoms, discouraging further alcohol intake.

What is the usual dosage for ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET?

The typical dosage is once daily. Initially, a maximum of 500 mg daily may be given for one to two weeks, after which the maintenance dose is usually reduced to 250 mg daily. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 500 mg. It can be taken with or without food, preferably in the morning. If it causes drowsiness, your doctor might suggest taking it at bedtime. You can swallow the tablet whole or crush it and mix it with water, milk, or juice. The duration of treatment is determined by your doctor and can range from several months to years.

What are the possible side effects of ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include drowsiness, tiredness, headache, acne, flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling), sweating, increased thirst, swelling, rapid weight gain, nausea, severe vomiting, neck pain, throbbing headache, blurred vision, fast heartbeats, confusion, weakness, spinning sensation, and a metallic or garlic-like taste in the mouth. More serious but less common side effects can include dark-colored urine, jaundice, stomach pain (which may indicate liver problems), and seizures.

Is ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first three months, as it may affect the fetus. For breastfeeding mothers, it is probably unsafe, as it is not known if the medicine passes into breast milk and could pose risks to the infant. It is crucial to consult your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

Yes, ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET can interact with several medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking. Certain medications, such as isoniazid (for tuberculosis), metronidazole (an antibiotic), and paraldehyde (a sedative), can cause serious reactions when taken with Disulfiram and should generally be avoided. Dosage adjustments may be needed for drugs like phenytoin (for seizures), benzodiazepines (for anxiety), anticoagulants (like warfarin), and theophylline (for asthma).

What precautions should be taken while taking ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET?

The most important precaution is to absolutely avoid all forms of alcohol during treatment with ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET and for at least 14 days after stopping the medication. This includes alcohol in foods, liquid medicines, tonics, toiletries (e.g., aftershave, perfumes, mouthwash, hand sanitizers), and even vinegar. Do not take this medicine if you have consumed alcohol within the past 12 to 24 hours. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially heart, liver, or kidney problems, diabetes, high or low blood pressure, thyroid issues, brain damage, seizures, or mental disorders. It is not suitable for children under 18 years of age.

What happens if a dose of ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET be stored?

ESPERAL 250 MG TABLET should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The ideal temperature range is typically below 25°C (77°F), or between 10°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Keep the medication out of the reach and sight of children and pets.