Products and foodstuffs to avoid when using antabuse

The following headings cover many of the day to day product types you may purchase and some guidance of a more general nature.

AFTERSHAVES

It is best to use an alcohol free type.

VINEGARS & PICKLES

These are normally safe, provided they are non alcohol based. However, if they are cider or wine vinegars, it is best to avoid them.

ANTI-PERSPIRANTS

It is best to buy an alcohol free type.

MOUTH WASHES

Some contain alcohol, so best to avoid them. Some alcohol free products will be on sale soon. Check with your pharmacist or dentist.

COUGH MEDICINES

Your pharmacist should be consulted at all times.

 

VITAMIN C SUPPLEMENTS

This includes orange and other fruit juices. Proprietary brands are unlikely to interfere with the metabolism of Antabuse. High dose Vitamin C (intravenous) can affect the Antabuse/Alcohol reaction, but will only be given under the supervision of a doctor.

COOKING WITH ALCOHOL

Most sauces e.g. white wine, contain only a small amount of alcohol. However, cooking for a few minutes at a high temperature will evaporate off the alcohol, since it has a low boiling point, but the flavours will remain. Food which contains ‘un-cooked’ alcohol, such as sherry trifles, should be avoided.

HAIR

Permanent dyes are acceptable, but some rinses contain alcohol and should be avoided.

BLOOD DONATION

This should be completely avoided.

Next page .. Detoxification protocols and withdrawal scales

Alcohol Guidelines index

The above information is copyright of Dr Bruce Trathen MBBS MRCPsych (2006). ISBN 0-9545164-0-0. The author grants permission for these guidelines to be downloaded, copied and distributed freely, but does not grant permission for their sale.