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It is estimated that over 2,5 million Poles have a problem with alcohol abuse, including 700-900. people are addicted. Therapy plays a key role in the fight against alcoholism, but you can also help yourself by using Disulfiram, formerly known as Esperal. What is this substance and what is the treatment with its use? We explain the indications and contraindications for sewing in Esperal. Currently, this form is very rarely used.
How does the alcohol label work?
An alcohol label is a preparation whose active substance is disulfiram – a substance that blocks the enzyme responsible for metabolizing ethyl alcohol in the body. After both of these compounds react, the patient begins to develop unpleasant symptoms. These include, first of all:
- headache and dizziness
- nausea and vomiting
- accelerated heart rate,
- anxiety.
After consuming a large amount of alcohol by a sewed person, alcoholic epilepsy, cardiovascular and respiratory disorders, and even cardiac arrest may occur. It is thanks to this that Esperal discourages the patient from drinking alcohol.
- Too much alcohol promotes atrial fibrillation
The aversive action makes the addicted person stop reaching for the proverbial glass. Disulfiram remains in the body for 8 to 12 months. If necessary, the treatment can be repeated after this time.
Indications and contraindications for the procedure
The basic indication for the so-called alcohol sewing is the addict’s willingness to recover from the disease. The drug must not be administered without the patient’s informed consent, as well as to people into a state of alcoholic intoxication.
That is why mental disorders are one of the contraindications to this form of treatment. Other situations where disulfiram cannot be implanted include:
- hypertension,
- heart failure
- hypersensitivity to any component of the preparation.
It is worth knowing that the alcohol label has no effect on the performance of daily activities – it does not worsen the patient’s reflexes or motor skills.
How much does it cost to sew Esperal?
The price of the procedure depends on several factors, including the location and reputation of the facility, as well as aspects such as the type of sutures used. The average cost of alcohol sewing is about PLN 800.
The course of Esperal implantation
Disulfiram is not taken orally, but is sutured sub-fascia in the buttock area. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and usually takes about 30 minutes. After completing the procedure, the patient can return to his daily activities. Importantly, the alcohol label remains invisible.
The treatment is preceded by a medical interview, during which the patient is asked, inter alia, about allergies, medications and active diseases. In addition to the alcohol label, people struggling with alcoholism are recommended to regularly meet a psychologist or psychotherapist. The combination of both of these treatments provides the best results.
- When is it worth visiting a psychologist?