Firam

Product Overview

Firam is a prescription medication containing 250 mg of Disulfiram per tablet. Designed for alcohol dependence treatment, it works by inducing unpleasant physical reactions when alcohol is consumed. This deterrent effect helps individuals maintain abstinence and supports long-term recovery from alcohol addiction as part of comprehensive treatment programs.

Therapeutic Applications

Firam is clinically indicated for:

• Management of chronic alcohol dependence
• Supporting abstinence maintenance in recovering alcoholics
• Integration into multimodal addiction treatment protocols

Administration Guidelines

For optimal therapeutic outcomes:

1. Take one tablet daily with water, preferably at the same time each day
2. Strictly avoid all alcohol-containing products (including foods and medications)
3. Maintain regular dosing as prescribed, even during periods of abstinence
4. Combine medication use with behavioral therapy for comprehensive treatment

Mechanism of Action

Firam exerts its therapeutic effect by irreversibly inhibiting aldehyde dehydrogenase, causing acetaldehyde accumulation when alcohol is consumed. This produces a characteristic disulfiram-alcohol reaction featuring:

• Flushing and tachycardia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hypotension
• Severe malaise

This aversive conditioning creates negative reinforcement against alcohol consumption.

Dosage Protocol

Standard dosing involves:

• Initial dose: 250-500 mg daily for 1-2 weeks
• Maintenance dose: 125-500 mg daily (individualized)
• Maximum daily dose: 500 mg

Dosage adjustments may be required based on:

• Patient tolerance
• Treatment response
• Hepatic function

Therapeutic Advantages

Firam offers multiple clinical benefits:

• Creates pharmacological deterrent to alcohol use
• Enhances treatment adherence when combined with psychotherapy
• Non-habit forming with no abuse potential
• Supports neurochemical recovery from alcohol dependence
• Improves long-term sobriety outcomes

Adverse Effects

Common treatment-emergent effects include:

• Drowsiness and fatigue
• Metallic aftertaste
• Mild gastrointestinal disturbances
• Allergic dermatitis

These typically diminish with continued therapy.

Important Precautions

Special considerations include:

• Requires complete alcohol abstinence (including topical products)
• Caution in patients with hepatic impairment
• Potential drug interactions with warfarin, phenytoin, and certain antidepressants
• May cause disulfiram-ethanol reaction for up to 14 days after discontinuation

Contraindications

Firam is contraindicated in:

• Severe cardiac disease
• Psychotic disorders
• Concurrent metronidazole therapy
• Known hypersensitivity to disulfiram

Storage Requirements

Proper storage involves:

• Room temperature (15-30°C)
• Protection from moisture and light
• Secure storage away from children
• Proper disposal of expired medication

Medical Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. While we strive for accuracy, this content should not replace professional medical consultation. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding:

• Potential drug interactions
• Individual contraindications
• Personalized treatment plans

This information supplements but does not replace the essential doctor-patient relationship.