Alcoholism refers to a medical problem in which drinking excessive amounts of alcohol interferes with physical, social, mental and family life. MedlinePlus indicates that signs of alcoholism include drinking alone, confusion, nausea, vomiting, forgetting to eat or being violent when drinking.
Disulfiram
Disulfiram, commonly sold as Antabuse, is a medication that blocks alcohol's effects. Specifically, this medication is used to treat chronic alcoholism. Drugs.com says that disulfiram's less serious side effects include fatigue, drowsiness, a swollen or sore tongue, impotence, a skin rash and a metallic taste in the mouth. In some instances, disulfiram leads to headaches and acne. Disulfiram's serious side effects include seizures, extreme fatigue, dizziness, a lack of coordination, vomiting and severe diarrhea. Notify a doctor when disulfiram leads to these effects. Disulfiram is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
Acamprosate
Acamprosate, commonly sold as Campral, is a medication that balances brain chemicals to eliminate the urge to drink. Specifically, Drugs.com says this medication helps people who recently stopped drinking continue to refrain from drinking. Its less concerning side effects include constipation, diarrhea, sweating, back pain, muscle or joint pain, dry mouth and memory problems. Impotence, nausea, vomiting, a poor appetite, dizziness, a headache and weakness are acamprosate's other less concerning side effects. Serious side effects include behavioral changes, confusion, increased thirst, depression, anxiety and mood or behavioral changes. Inform a physician if acamprosate's serious side effects develop. Acamprosate is a tablet taken three times daily.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone, commonly sold as ReVia, is an opiate antagonist that reduces alcohol cravings. MedlinePlus says that naltrexone's less serious side effects include constipation, a poor appetite, trouble sleeping, joint or muscle pain and dizziness. Naltrexone's additional effects include headache, irritability, nervousness and diarrhea. This drug's serious side effects include blurry vision, hallucinations, vomiting, diarrhea and confusion. Call a doctor if naltrexone's effects develop. Naltrexone is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
