Stumbling, being unable to walk straight and slurred speech are characteristic signs of being intoxicated. Chronic intoxication from excessive drinking can gradually transform into alcoholism. The Mayo Clinic says that drinking in secret, becoming intoxicated intentionally and having a need to drink are just a few signs of alcoholism. Fortunately, medicines exist to curb alcohol use.
Disulfiram
MedlinePlus says that disulfiram is a medication that treats chronic alcoholism. Specifically, it purposefully causes certain side effects when alcohol is consumed. These side effects include a headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, chest pain and trouble breathing. These symptoms can last for one or more hours.
Disulfiram's other side effects include drowsiness, a skin rash, impotence, fatigue and a garlic or metallic-like taste in the mouth, says MedlinePlus. Dark-colored urine, yellowing of the skin and a poor appetite are disulfiram's other side effects.
MedlinePlus warns that disulfiram should not be taken when intoxicated because the aforementioned effects can last for up to two weeks. Also, disulfiram combined with such medicines as amytriptyline, warfarin, metronidazole or isoniazid may lead to drug interactions.
Disulfiram can be used prior to and after detoxification.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone works to block alcohol's effects. Weakness, fatigue, anxiousness, restlessness, joint or muscle aches, trouble sleeping, fainting and light-headedness are some of naltrexone's side effects. Naltrexone can also cause ear pain, ringing in the ears, wheezing, hallucinations, changes in mood, confusion and suicidal thoughts.
Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol while taking naltrexone can lead to coma and even death. Suffering from liver or kidney disease and a bleeding disorder may require changes in naltrexone's dose.
Drugs.com says that naltrexone must not be taken when people suffer from a narcotic addiction, those who have a history of drug or alcohol use, especially within seven to ten days, and those who are having alcohol or drug withdrawal symptoms.
Naltrexone may be used during or after detoxification.
Acamprosate
Acamprosate is a medication designed to prevent alcohol consumption after successfully being sober. This medication is commonly combined with support and counseling.
Acamprosate's side effects include diarrhea, gas, weakness, dizziness, a poor appetite, stomach problems, a rash and tingling or numbness of the arms, hands and feet. Acamprosate may also lead to irritability, appetite changes, feelings of guilt or hopelessness, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, weight changes and thoughts of suicide, says MedlinePlus. Seek help at the initial start of these symptoms.
Acamprosate is used after detoxification.
