Alcoban 500mg Tablet (Disulfiram): Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Severe flushing, throbbing headache, or chest pain after any alcohol exposure
- Difficulty breathing or fainting
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine
- Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
- Numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands or feet
- Blurred vision or colour vision changes
- Confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behaviour
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is davaindia disulfiram 500mg tablet used for?
This medicine contains Disulfiram 500mg, an alcohol deterrent used to support abstinence in people with alcohol use disorder. It works by blocking the breakdown of acetaldehyde, causing an unpleasant reaction if alcohol is consumed. It must only be used under medical supervision and with complete alcohol avoidance.
- Generic Name: Disulfiram
- Manufacturer: Davaindia Generic Pharmacy
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 davaindia disulfiram 500mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा डिसल्फिरम 500 मिलीग्राम टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग शराब की लत से जूझ रहे लोगों के इलाज में सहायक के रूप में किया जाता है। यह दवा शराब पीने पर शरीर में एक अप्रिय प्रतिक्रिया पैदा करती है, जिससे मतली, उल्टी, सिरदर्द, चेहरे पर लालिमा और धड़कन तेज हो सकती है। इस कारण यह दवा शराब छोड़ने में मदद करती है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर की देखरेख में और किसी डी-एडिक्शन प्रोग्राम के साथ ही लेनी चाहिए। इसे अकेले शुरू न करें और शराब पीने के 12 से 24 घंटे के भीतर कभी न लें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, थकान, सिरदर्द, मुँह में धातु जैसा स्वाद, मतली और कमजोरी शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को त्वचा पर दाने या मुँहासे भी हो सकते हैं। दुर्लभ मामलों में यह दवा लीवर को नुकसान पहुँचा सकती है, जिससे आँखों और त्वचा का पीलापन, गहरे रंग का पेशाब और पेट दर्द हो सकता है। हाथ-पैरों में झुनझुनी या सुन्नपन भी हो सकता है। अगर शराब पीने के बाद तेज सिरदर्द, सीने में दर्द, साँस लेने में कठिनाई या बेहोशी हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर के पास जाएँ।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर की सलाह और देखरेख में ही लें। शराब पीने के 12 से 24 घंटे के भीतर इसे कभी न लें। इलाज के दौरान और दवा बंद करने के 14 दिन बाद तक शराब और शराब युक्त उत्पादों से पूरी तरह दूर रहें। कफ सिरप, माउथवॉश, सौंदर्य प्रसाधन और कुछ खाद्य पदार्थों में छिपी शराब भी खतरनाक हो सकती है। अपने डॉक्टर को सभी दवाओं के बारे में बताएं। लीवर की जाँच नियमित रूप से कराएँ। अगर आँखों या त्वचा का पीलापन, गहरे रंग का पेशाब, या हाथ-पैरों में झुनझुनी हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।
💊 davaindia disulfiram 500mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Alcohol use disorder (adjunctive therapy)","description":"Used as an aversive agent to support abstinence in carefully selected, motivated patients who have stopped drinking and are enrolled in a structured de-addiction programme.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Alcohol dependence relapse prevention","description":"Prescribed to help maintain sobriety by creating an unpleasant reaction if alcohol is consumed, thereby discouraging relapse.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Cocaine dependence","description":"Sometimes studied or used off-label to reduce cocaine use, but evidence is limited and inconsistent.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Nickel contact dermatitis","description":"Occasionally used off-label because disulfiram can chelate nickel, but this is not a standard approved use.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Alcohol use disorder
Also treats: Alcohol dependence, Alcohol relapse prevention
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Disulfiram |
| Brand Name | Alcoban |
| Manufacturer | Davaindia Generic Pharmacy |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | NEURO CNS |
| Action Class | Alcohol deaddiction |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C in a dry place. Keep the tablets in their original container, tightly closed, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture, or as printed on the packaging. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization does not specifically recommend disulfiram as a first-line treatment for alcohol use disorder, but it may be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment programme in selected patients. Not established from the available information for specific WHO recommendations. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research has not issued specific guidelines on the use of disulfiram for alcohol use disorder. Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by irreversibly inhibiting the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, which is responsible for converting acetaldehyde into acetic acid. When a person drinks alcohol, alcohol is first converted into acetaldehyde. Because this medicine blocks the next step, acetaldehyde accumulates in the blood and produces a highly unpleasant reaction known as the disulfiram-alcohol reaction. This reaction includes flushing, throbbing headache, nausea, vomiting, sweating, thirst, chest pain, palpitations, difficulty breathing, and low blood pressure. The fear and discomfort of this reaction act as a deterrent to drinking. This medicine also inhibits dopamine beta-hydroxylase, which may contribute to its effects on craving and mood, although this is not its primary mechanism.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take davaindia disulfiram 500mg tablet
Strength: Disulfiram 500mg immediate-release tablet for oral use.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is individualized by a qualified clinician based on the patient's condition, response, and tolerance. A common starting dose is 500mg once daily, but some patients may be started on a lower dose. The dose may be adjusted based on clinical response and side effects. This medicine should only be started after the patient has abstained from alcohol for at least 12 to 24 hours. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, confusion, and neurological effects. The dose should be individualized by a qualified clinician, and liver and kidney function should be monitored closely. |
| Renal Impairment | This medicine is primarily metabolized in the liver, but it should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. The dose may need to be adjusted based on kidney function. Consult a qualified clinician for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | This medicine is extensively metabolized in the liver and can cause liver injury. It should be used with extreme caution in patients with liver disease. Liver function tests should be checked before starting and regularly during treatment. The dose may need to be reduced or the medicine avoided in severe liver disease. Consult a qualified clinician for individualized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose is 500mg, but this may vary based on clinical judgment. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of davaindia disulfiram 500mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Major | |
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Phenytoin | Major | |
| Isoniazid | Major | |
| Metronidazole | Major | |
| Benzodiazepines | Moderate | |
| Tricyclic antidepressants | Moderate | |
| Caffeine | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Iron supplements | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Alcohol (any form)
- Warfarin
- Phenytoin
- Isoniazid
- Metronidazole
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam)
- Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline)
- Caffeine
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol must be completely avoided while taking this medicine and for at least 14 days after stopping it. Even small amounts of alcohol, including that found in cough syrups, mouthwash, aftershave, sauces, and desserts, can trigger a severe disulfiram-alcohol reaction. This reaction can cause flushing, throbbing headache, nausea, vomiting, sweating, thirst, chest pain, palpitations, difficulty breathing, and dangerously low blood pressure. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening. If you accidentally consume alcohol, seek emergency medical care immediately.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Recent alcohol consumption (within the last 12 to 24 hours)","Severe heart disease or heart failure","Psychosis or severe mental illness","Hypersensitivity to disulfiram or any component of the tablet","Pregnancy","Breastfeeding","Severe liver disease","Inability to understand or consent to the treatment plan"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine must only be used under close medical supervision as part of a de-addiction programme.","Never start this medicine if you have consumed alcohol in the last 12 to 24 hours.","Avoid all alcohol-containing products, including cough syrups, mouthwash, and aftershave, during treatment and for at least 14 days after stopping.","Report any numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands or feet to your doctor promptly.","Report any vision changes, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin immediately.","Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel drowsy.","Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially blood thinners and anti-seizure medicines.","Keep this medicine out of reach of children."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
This medicine is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Because of the potential for serious side effects in a nursing infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medicine. Consult your doctor for alternative options.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and in severe cases, coma and cardiovascular collapse. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical care immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal if the overdose was recent, intravenous fluids, and monitoring of vital signs and liver function. There is no specific antidote for this medicine.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you miss multiple doses, consult your doctor for guidance.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must only be taken under close medical supervision as part of a de-addiction programme. Never start this medicine on your own, and never take it if you have consumed alcohol in the last 12 to 24 hours. Even small amounts of alcohol hidden in cough syrups, mouthwash, aftershave, sauces, or desserts can trigger a severe reaction, so read labels carefully. Avoid all alcohol-containing products during treatment and for at least 14 days after stopping this medicine. Tell your doctor about all other medicines, especially blood thinners, anti-seizure medicines, and medicines for anxiety or depression. Get your liver function tests checked before starting and regularly during treatment. Report numbness, tingling, vision changes, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin immediately. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel drowsy. Keep this medicine out of reach of children, and store it in its original container away from light and moisture.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, confusion, and neurological effects. The dose should be individualized, and liver and kidney function should be monitored closely. Falls and confusion are of particular concern in this age group.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or when planning to become pregnant. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while taking this medicine. If you are planning a pregnancy, consult your doctor to discuss alternative treatments and a safe transition plan.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine can interact with anaesthetic agents and other medicines used during surgery. Inform your surgeon and anaesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgical procedure. It may need to be stopped temporarily before surgery, as advised by your doctor.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. Some dental products, such as mouthwash, may contain alcohol and can trigger a reaction. Your dentist may recommend alcohol-free products. Also, this medicine can cause dry mouth, which may increase the risk of dental problems.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. If you experience numbness or tingling in your feet, consult your doctor before starting any exercise programme.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It is important to inform your employer about your treatment if your job involves safety-sensitive tasks. The medicine may also cause a metallic taste and bad breath, which can affect social interactions. However, the benefits of maintaining abstinence often outweigh these effects.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects such as severe allergic reactions, liver problems, or neurological symptoms, your doctor may advise you to stop. If you have maintained abstinence for a period determined by your doctor, they may gradually taper or stop the medicine. Always follow your doctor's guidance.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of peripheral neuropathy, liver injury, and optic neuritis. Regular monitoring of liver function, neurological status, and vision is recommended. The duration of treatment should be individualized, and the medicine should be reviewed periodically to assess the risk-benefit balance. Some patients may develop tolerance to the aversive effects, but this is not well established.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Helps identify and change thought patterns and behaviours related to alcohol use.
Evidence: Well-establishedA counselling approach that helps build motivation to quit drinking.
Evidence: Well-establishedPeer support groups that provide ongoing encouragement and accountability.
Evidence: Well-establishedOther medicines that can help reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no specific vaccine interactions with this medicine. However, patients with alcohol use disorder may have an increased risk of infections, and routine vaccinations should be kept up to date. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When travelling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes. Store it at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Be aware that some countries have strict rules about medicines containing disulfiram, so check local regulations before travel. Avoid all alcohol during travel, including on flights and in duty-free products. If you are crossing time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting your dosing schedule.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts working within a few days, but its full effect on alcohol metabolism may take 1 to 2 weeks of regular dosing.
A: You may experience a severe reaction with flushing, headache, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and low blood pressure. This can be life-threatening and requires emergency care.
A: No. This medicine should only be used as part of a comprehensive de-addiction programme that includes counselling and behavioural support.
A: The duration of treatment is individualized by your doctor based on your progress and response. Do not stop without consulting your doctor.
A: This medicine can rarely cause liver injury. Your doctor will check your liver function before and during treatment. Report any yellowing of the skin or eyes immediately.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for davaindia disulfiram 500mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
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cronodol 500mg tabletSyncom Formulations I Limited ₹11.83 40.9% CHEAPER
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alconil 500mg tabletZen Labs India ₹28.13 40.7% COSTLIER
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chronol 500mg tabletKolson India Healthcare Pvt Ltd ₹28.13 40.7% COSTLIER
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alconix 500mg tabletInnovative Pharmaceuticals ₹30.00 50% COSTLIER
-
medibuse 500mg tabletMedi Globe ₹30.00 50% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine cures alcoholism.
Fact: This medicine is not a cure. It is an adjunctive treatment that helps deter drinking when combined with counselling and behavioural support. - Myth: You can drink alcohol in small amounts while taking this medicine.
Fact: Even small amounts of alcohol can trigger a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction. Complete abstinence is required. - Myth: This medicine can be started immediately after drinking.
Fact: This medicine should only be started after at least 12 to 24 hours of alcohol abstinence and medical assessment. - Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
Fact: This medicine is not suitable for people with severe heart disease, psychosis, severe liver disease, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Disulfiram 500mg tablet (generic)
Brand Alternatives
- Alcoban 500mg tablet