Esperal Tablet – Effective Treatment for Alcohol Addiction

Esperal Tablet is a widely used medication for the treatment of alcohol addiction. It discourages alcohol consumption by producing unpleasant effects such as nausea, facial flushing, and headaches when alcohol is consumed. This mechanism supports patients in maintaining abstinence and breaking the habit of drinking.

Uses of Esperal Tablet:

• Treatment of chronic alcohol dependence
• Used with behavioral therapy and counseling

Benefits of Esperal Tablet:

In patients undergoing recovery from alcoholism, Esperal Tablet plays a critical role. It causes adverse reactions when alcohol is consumed, including:

• Facial flushing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache and dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Mental confusion

This discourages further intake of alcohol. The medication works from the first dose and should be taken as prescribed by your doctor.

How to Use Esperal Tablet?

Take the Tablet in the dose and duration prescribed by your physician. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water—do not crush or chew it. For best results, take it at a fixed time each day.

Important Advice While Using Esperal

• Avoid all forms of alcohol including beer, wine, aftershave, colognes, vinegar, mouthwash, and alcohol-containing syrups or medications.
• Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.
• Complete the full course as prescribed.

How Esperal Tablet Works?

It works by blocking aldehyde dehydrogenase, the enzyme that breaks down alcohol in the body. This leads to the accumulation of acetaldehyde, a toxic substance that causes adverse physical reactions when alcohol is consumed. These unpleasant effects serve as a deterrent and help patients refrain from drinking.

Side Effects of Esperal Tablet:

• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Metallic or garlic-like taste
• Decreased libido

These side effects are usually mild and resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the tablet affects you.

Safety Advice:

Alcohol

UNSAFE: Do not consume alcohol while taking it. Even small amounts can cause severe reactions.

Pregnancy

Consult Your Doctor: Limited human studies. Not recommended during pregnancy unless advised by a doctor.

Breastfeeding

Consult Your Doctor: May pass into breast milk and could harm the baby.

Driving

UNSAFE: May cause drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion. Avoid driving if affected.

Kidney

Use with Caution: Dose adjustment may be required. Consult your doctor.

Liver

Use with Caution: Patients with liver disease should consult their doctor before use.

Missed Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double your dose.

Drug Interactions:

Esperal may interact with the following medicines:

• Clonazepam: Increased drowsiness, avoid driving
• Alprazolam: May cause excessive sedation
• Amitriptyline: Disulfiram may decrease metabolism; monitor kidney function
• Metronidazole: Risk of confusion or psychosis; avoid concurrent use
• Phenytoin: May increase blood levels of Phenytoin; doctor may adjust dose

Quick Tips:

• Use in combination with behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and support counseling
• Best for patients committed to quitting alcohol
• May cause dizziness or weakness initially—avoid mentally demanding tasks
• Inform doctor if you have heart, kidney, liver problems, or psychiatric conditions
• Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding

FAQs:

Is Esperal Tablet safe?

Yes, when taken under medical supervision in prescribed doses, it is safe.

Is Esperal Tablet addictive?

No, it is not addictive. It helps in treating alcohol dependence.

Does Esperal Tablet stop alcohol cravings?

It does not directly suppress cravings but causes unpleasant symptoms when alcohol is consumed, discouraging further use.

Does Esperal Tablet work immediately?

Yes, it starts acting from the very first dose.

Is it available over the counter?

No, The Tablet is a prescription-only medicine and must be initiated by a medical professional.

Who should use Esperal Tablet?

It is most effective for chronic alcoholics who are willing and committed to abstaining from alcohol.

Can Esperal Tablet be taken with other medicines?

Some medicines can interact with Esperal. Always inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.