Disulfiram WZF - injection - how long does it work? | Price

Aldehyde dehydrogenase

Disulfiram belongs to organic chemical compounds and is used in the treatment of alcoholism. Due to its action, namely the negative impact on alcohol metabolism in the blood, it causes a series of reactions in the human body. First and foremost, it inhibits the action of aldehyde dehydrogenase. Because of this, acetaldehyde cannot oxidize into acetic acid, which is a much less harmful substance for humans. As a result of the accumulation of excessive amounts of acetaldehyde in the body, the alcoholic experiences symptoms of severe alcohol poisoning. The symptoms resemble those that are noticeable during the next-day syndrome, or the commonly known hangover. The difference, however, lies in the duration of the felt discomfort and its intensity. Symptoms appear approximately 5 to 10 minutes after alcohol consumption and continuously make life difficult for up to 10 hours.

Disulfiram – what does it look like?

Disulfiram comes in the form of tablets that are implanted deep under the muscle layer as an implant. The doctor decides on their quantity. The dosage depends, among other things, on the patient's weight. The entire process is practically painless and is performed by experienced specialists. The disulfiram implant is usually placed in the buttock or shoulder blade area. The procedure takes about half an hour under anesthesia. After the stitches are applied, the patient can return to their daily activities and physical exercise without any problems. After a week, the only trace is a small scar.

Disulfiram – how long does it work?

The implant is characterized by a very long duration of action. This is one of the reasons why disulfiram is such a popular element of anti-alcohol therapy. The effectiveness of disulfiram is entirely dependent on the person's body. On how long they have been drinking alcohol and to what extent the body has been damaged. Weight and age of the person being treated may also influence this. Doctors estimate that Esperal induces aversion to alcohol consumption for 8 to 12 months. The procedure can be repeated after this period. During alcohol addiction psychotherapy in the form of group or individual sessions, patients learn how to manage alcoholism without the help of pharmacology. See: How long does the Esperal alcohol implant work? Throughout the entire period of action, the drug is released into the bloodstream and remains present for about a week after the end of treatment. Implants are one element of aversion therapy, which is based on the assumption that the patient will experience such negative consequences after consuming alcohol that they will be discouraged from further drinking. Disulfiram serves the role of a deterrent element that supports the fight against addiction. Its action begins within a few minutes after drinking alcohol. The symptoms can be compared to those that accompany a hangover, except that they are multiplied. They result from the accumulation of acetaldehyde, which in the case of people without an implant is converted into a harmless form. See: What does the Esperal implantation procedure look like? In addition to the previously mentioned consequences, convulsions may also appear, and in extreme cases, a heart attack. It is precisely this fear of losing health and even life that is supposed to serve as a deterrent factor. It is worth remembering that during treatment, the patient also cannot take any other substances where alcohol is only present as an auxiliary ingredient. This applies, for example, to mouthwashes, various types of cosmetics, cough syrups, or sauces. In such cases, the so-called disulfiram reaction may also occur.

Disulfiram and combination with alcohol

Esperal is commonly considered a kind of scare tactic because it induces a strong fear of consuming any amount of ethyl alcohol. The body's reactions vary, although the possible symptoms are well known. The reaction is always immediate because the alcohol implant is implanted under the shoulder blade or in the buttock area. This is not only an effective treatment method but also guarantees anonymity and discretion due to the placement of Esperal.

Disulfiram reaction (small amount of consumed alcohol):

• pain and dizziness

• nausea, vomiting

• accelerated heart rate

• irregular blood pressure

• weakness

• trembling of the body and hands

• excessive sweating

• feelings of anxiety

Disulfiram reaction (high alcohol concentration in the blood):

• loss of vision

• liver damage

• heart function disorder

• consciousness disorder

• death

The consequences of drinking alcohol while disulfiram is active effectively discourage consumption, regardless of the amount.

Disulfiram – contraindications

To proceed with the procedure, the patient must maintain sobriety for at least 12 hours before the start of implantation. Consumption of any other substances containing alcohol is also prohibited. A contraindication is hypersensitivity to disulfiram or any excipient contained in the drug. The implant cannot be applied in the case of people with confirmed heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and arterial hypertension. A contraindication is also previously suffered peripheral circulatory failure. Disulfiram therapy is not possible in the case of people with mental disorders, suffering from psychosis, and after suicide attempts. Treatment with an implant must always result from the patient's informed consent.

Disulfiram – where to buy?

Disulfiram is not sold without a prescription – and the tablet implantation procedure is not reimbursed by the NFZ. Procedures involving the implantation of disulfiram are available in many cities in Poland. By using the services of Our Medical Group, you can opt for its implementation in Our Clinics in the largest cities of Poland. The price for disulfiram depends on the choice of a specific medical package.

Anti-alcohol injection price?

Esperal – alcohol implant or oral tablet? Which form of medication to choose? – see our article By choosing the STANDARD package at a price from 650 PLN, the patient receives the most economical version. By opting for the VIP option at a price of 850 PLN, the patient additionally receives an antibiotic injection, which reduces the risk of infection, and dissolvable stitches. The third package called GOLD additionally allows for the implantation of disulfiram in a maximum of three places and offers the possibility of two free follow-up medical visits. See: How much does the Esperal implant cost

Why doesn't disulfiram work?

It is worth noting that the disulfiram implant should constitute one of the elements of anti-alcohol therapy, not its main part. Addicted individuals often realize that the negative sensations after consuming alcohol do not actually result from the drinking itself, but are an effect of the medication's action. In such a situation, they may strive to get rid of the implant as quickly as possible. A lot also depends on the patient's own approach. If the implantation of disulfiram was the result of pressure from loved ones and did not stem from the patient's will, its action may not bring the intended effects, and after 12 months the person will return to drinking again. The key to success is internal motivation and belief that addiction can be overcome. If the patient is not ready to break away from it, the implant alone will not be enough. Additionally, it is worth using the services of a psychologist who will help the patient find inner reserves of strength.

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