Disulfiram Medication Treatment, Clinics, and Doctors in Palm Desert, California

California Behavioral Health is a substance use disorder (SUD) rehabilitation center that offers disulfiram treatment in Palm Desert, CA. We also provide dual diagnosis treatment for those facing a co-occurring mental health condition. Our facility incorporates various harm reduction strategies within our medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program to support you in overcoming your alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Get a Free Alcohol Addiction Assessment at California Behavioral Health

Our disulfiram clinic near Palm Desert, California, offers a complimentary initial assessment and same-day admissions. We can also verify your insurance coverage. Our inpatient rehab MAT programs will give you the support you need. If you’re seeking alcohol abuse treatment, this page will guide you on how a disulfiram program can aid in treating alcohol dependence. Additionally, you’ll discover information about locating disulfiram doctors in Palm Desert, CA, who are accepting new patients.

California Behavioral Health
37066 Bankside Dr, Cathedral City, CA 92234

Disulfiram Medication - What Is It?

Disulfiram (brand name Antabuse) is a prescription medication that is mainly used for alcohol dependence treatment. By blocking the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which leads to an accumulation in the blood, it interferes with your body’s ability to metabolize alcohol. This buildup causes unpleasant symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, headache, chest pain, and weakness, when you consume alcohol, which discourages drinking.

This alcohol anti-craving medication is taken once each day in the form of a tablet. The most common side effects include drowsiness and a metallic taste in the mouth. Some can experience liver toxicity, psychiatric symptoms, or severe allergic reactions. Disulfiram maintenance treatment is the most successful when paired with behavioral health interventions, such as addiction counseling and other alcohol recovery support services.

What Is the Purpose of Disulfiram?

The purpose of disulfiram is to provide support for your sobriety and to deter you from consuming alcohol. This is thanks to the immediate unpleasant physical symptoms that you will experience with this alcohol use disorder medication. This alcohol addiction medication inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, the enzyme responsible for metabolizing alcohol.

So, if you’re taking disulfiram and take a drink of alcohol, you will have to deal with some uncomfortable reactions, including headache, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, palpitations, and weakness. Even though it is not a cure for alcoholism, it’s a great tool to help you stay sober. Using disulfiram for alcohol substitution therapy is the most effective when combined with alcohol therapy, support groups, and relapse prevention strategies.

Can Disulfiram Be Addictive?

Disulfiram is not considered addictive as it fails to produce a euphoric high or cause cravings, but it is possible that you could become dependent on the structure it provides you. Also, in rare cases, some have abused disulfiram by taking it as a means of punishment after consuming alcohol.

If you think that disulfiram, or any other medication you’re taking, is creating negative psychological effects, it is very crucial to contact your healthcare provider. If you want more information about disulfiram, you can always contact CA Behavioral Health.

How Does Disulfiram Medication Work to Help with Alcohol Addictions?

Disulfiram medication, a pharmacotherapy for addiction that serves as a deterrent to consuming alcohol, causes acetaldehyde to accumulate in your bloodstream when alcohol is swallowed. This results in some very disagreeable symptoms within ten to thirty minutes after ingestion, including nausea, headache, chest pain, vomiting, and weakness. In rare cases, you may even experience seizures.

Disulfiram serves as alcohol replacement therapy, acting as a psychological deterrent from drinking alcohol, but it’s not a cure. It doesn’t treat the underlying causes of alcohol addiction or reduce cravings. At CA Behavioral, we provide disulfiram treatment in Palm Desert, CA, in addition to behavioral therapies for alcohol dependence treatment. Contact us today to learn more about how we treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) and how we can assist with your alcohol withdrawal management.

Group therapy for substance abuse therapy and counseling

Is There an Alternative to Disulfiram?

Yes, there are alternatives to disulfiram that can assist with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), including naltrexone, acamprosate, topiramate, and gabapentin. Naltrexone, which is similar in function to methadone treatment, buprenorphine therapy, and naloxone administration, is an FDA-approved medication. This opioid antagonist therapy is utilized in the treatment of alcohol and opioid addiction.

Opioid antagonists help reduce cravings by blocking opioid receptors. Generally, it is administered in tablet form daily; however, you may also receive an extended-release naltrexone injection (Vivitrol) that is administered once a month. Acamprosate balances your brain chemistry, diminishes cravings, lowers the chances of relapse, supports brain recovery, and alleviates withdrawal symptoms. Both topiramate and gabapentin are considered “off-label use,” meaning that they are not FDA-approved to treat alcohol dependency.

What Are the Side Effects of Disulfiram?

Disulfiram’s common side effects include headache, drowsiness, a mild skin rash, gastrointestinal upset, and a metallic or garlic taste in the mouth. Some of the more serious side effects can involve severe allergic reactions, neurological symptoms, cardiovascular issues, vision or eye problems, and severe liver damage.

If you want to decrease side effects, there are several precautions that you can take, such as avoiding alcohol altogether and testing your liver function regularly. It’s also important to share with your doctor any medications that you’re taking since certain drugs can increase the toxicity of disulfiram.

How Long Do I Need to Stay on Disulfiram?

The duration of your use of disulfiram will depend on your personal recovery plan. Some of the main factors include your medical history, treatment goals, recovery progress, and comfort level. The traditional duration recommended by healthcare providers is typically three to twelve months. However, you may be on it for longer than a year to help you stay sober.

Do not stop using disulfiram without consulting a medical professional. It’s important to transition while continuing other recovery support services gradually. Our alcohol treatment center, which provides disulfiram treatment in Palm Desert, California, can help you overcome your addiction. If you want more information about our disulfiram clinic, contact us today.

Who Can Prescribe Disulfiram?

There are several disulfiram doctors near Palm Desert, California, who can prescribe this alcohol use disorder medication as part of your recovery plan. The list of licensed healthcare professionals includes psychiatrists, primary care physicians (PCPs), nurse practitioners (NPs), addiction medicine specialists, physician assistants (PAs), and specialized addiction programs and clinics.

If you want treatment, CA Behavioral Health offers disulfiram therapy in Palm Desert, California. Our alcohol treatment center is designed to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and promote a sustainable recovery. Contact us today to take your first step toward achieving sobriety.

How Do You Qualify for Disulfiram?

To qualify for disulfiram addiction treatment, you must meet specific criteria and conditions. These include a willingness to stop drinking, an official diagnosis of alcohol use disorder (AUD), completion of alcohol detox, absence of contraindications, comprehensive medical assessment, regular monitoring, and involvement in a treatment program.

If you could benefit from disulfiram, contact a healthcare provider today. We provide disulfiram treatment in Palm Desert, California. If you have questions about our disulfiram clinic or feel that you would be an ideal candidate for this alcohol anti-craving medication, contact California Behavioral Health today.

Statistics and Information on Disulfiram Prescriptions and Use in The Golden State

Disulfiram, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1951, was the first medication used to treat chronic alcohol use disorder (AUD). Its success in promoting sobriety was showcased in a 1973 study published in JAMA Psychiatry, which proved that disulfiram maintenance significantly outperformed other treatments in keeping patients engaged and sober.

Disulfiram is a treatment option available in several substance abuse centers in California. According to the 2019 National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services, 474 of the 1,797 centers in California provided disulfiram therapy. It is always important to use disulfiram under medical supervision. The Mayo Clinic notes that disulfiram can enhance the sedative effects of medications such as antihistamines, painkillers, and certain sleep aids, leading to increased drowsiness.

California Behavioral Health

An addiction is lonely, scary, and difficult. A recovery partner can help you take back control of your life and find the path to sobriety. Call or message us now to start your recovery journey today.

37066 Bankside Drive, Cathedral City, CA 92234

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    What Are the Benefits of Using Disulfiram for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?

    Disulfiram offers a unique benefit for people recovering from AUD by serving as a powerful deterrent to drinking. It works by causing unpleasant physical reactions, such as nausea and flushing, if alcohol is consumed. This effect creates a strong psychological barrier that can help you resist cravings, especially during challenging moments in your recovery.

    By discouraging alcohol use in such a direct way, disulfiram can support long-term abstinence and reduce the risk of relapse. Another key advantage of disulfiram is its role in promoting accountability. Knowing that even a small amount of alcohol could trigger severe side effects encourages people to make conscious, healthier choices. For many, this added layer of motivation can strengthen resolve and complement other forms of therapy. While unsuitable for everyone, disulfiram can be a valuable part of a comprehensive treatment plan when used under medical supervision.

    Does Private Health Insurance Cover Disulfiram Treatment in Southern California?

    Private health insurance usually covers disulfiram treatment in Southern California, but the degree of coverage will depend on your specific policy and insurance provider. Some of the main factors that could potentially impact your coverage include medical necessity, whether your treatment center is an in-network provider, and your insurance policy details.

    You might encounter some out-of-pocket expenses, such as coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles. Furthermore, your plan may necessitate prior authorization. If you have any inquiries about your coverage, don’t hesitate to contact us at CA Behavioral. We understand that navigating the complexities of insurance rules and regulations can be daunting and stressful. Let us help you review the details of your insurance coverage, allowing you to concentrate on your recovery.

    Who Is Licensed to Administer Disulfiram in Palm Desert, California?

    A medical professional checks a drug and alcohol detox patient's blood pressure

    In Palm Desert, California, various healthcare professionals are authorized to prescribe disulfiram, including addiction specialists, medical doctors experienced in substance use disorders (SUDs), and psychiatrists. Disulfiram is usually dispensed at inpatient addiction treatment centers, outpatient clinics, and other addiction facilities to aid in medication-assisted treatments (MATs).

    Our alcohol treatment center provides comprehensive programs that blend medication-assisted treatment with counseling and behavioral therapies to tackle alcohol use disorders along with co-occurring mental health issues. At CA Behavioral Health, our disulfiram clinic near Palm Desert, California, we can create a customized health plan for your unique needs, whether you are seeking an acute care approach or a long-term treatment program.

    Disulfiram Treatment in SoCal

    Several disulfiram treatment programs exist in Southern California, including California Behavioral Health. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you verify your insurance and secure the essential care you need. If you lack health insurance, we also provide payment plans. Call us today at (888) 355-1676 to begin your journey towards sobriety.

    Our treatment center located in Cathedral City is dedicated to tackling substance use disorders (SUDs), which include opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD), along with co-occurring conditions. We provide comprehensive inpatient care for alcohol and opioid dependency treatment, including medical detoxification, counseling, and therapy. Additionally, we emphasize relapse prevention and aftercare planning to support long-term alcohol and opioid addiction recovery.

    • 37066 Bankside Drive, Cathedral City, CA 92234

    Alternative Ways to Find a Disulfiram Program Near Palm Desert

    California Behavioral Health is a disulfiram clinic near Palm Desert, California. To assist you in discovering a program specifically designed for your unique needs, we have developed a comprehensive step-by-step guide for you. Here are some key steps to help you find a disulfiram treatment center close to you:

    • Conduct Research: Begin by researching disulfiram rehabilitation centers in Southern California. Utilize online search engines, directories, or resources from government agencies and healthcare organizations. Compile a list of potential rehab centers for consideration.
    • Verify Accreditation and Licensing: Ensure that each rehabilitation center on your list is accredited and licensed to provide addiction treatment services. Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) or the Joint Commission indicates compliance with quality standards.
    • Examine Treatment Methods: Investigate the treatment methods available at each rehab center. Determine if they offer evidence-based therapies for disulfiram addiction, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), individual counseling, group therapy, and holistic approaches.
    • Evaluate Facilities and Amenities: Assess each rehab center’s facilities and amenities. While this is not the most crucial factor, a safe and compassionate environment can enhance the overall treatment experience.
    • Review Staff Credentials: Check the qualifications and experience of the staff at each rehab center. Confirm that they are experts in addiction treatment and licensed healthcare professionals, such as doctors, therapists, counselors, and nurses.
    • Check Insurance Coverage: If you have health insurance, verify whether the rehab centers on your list accept your plan. Understanding your insurance coverage can help you gauge the affordability of treatment options.
    • Read Reviews and Testimonials: Try to seek out reviews and testimonials from former clients to get a glimpse into the quality of care each rehab center offers. It’s important to consider both positive and negative feedback to make a well-informed decision.
    • Reach Out to Rehab Centers: Contact the rehab centers on your list for further information. Inquire about their treatment programs, admission processes, duration of treatment, costs, and any other questions you may have.
    California Behavioral Health
    37066 Bankside Dr, Cathedral City, CA 92234, United States

    How Much Does Disulfiram Treatment Cost with Health Insurance Coverage?

    The cost of disulfiram treatment with health insurance coverage depends on your health plan, the generic or brand name (Antabuse), the location, and even the pharmacy. Generic disulfiram can range from $10 to $50 for a month’s supply. The brand name (Antabuse) will typically cost more.

    Trying to figure out the complex rules and regulations related to insurance can be overwhelming. California Behavioral Health is here to help you navigate your insurance coverage, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Contact us today without hesitation.

    How Much Does Disulfiram Treatment Cost Without Health Insurance Assistance?

    Without health insurance, the cost of disulfiram treatment typically ranges between $30 and $150 per month. The price will depend on whether you use a generic or brand-name version, dosage, pharmacy, and location. Some pharmacies offer discount programs to help lower the cost.

    Our caring team is here to support you in overcoming addiction. We recognize that financial factors are important when considering your treatment options. If you or someone you care about wants to learn more about the costs related to our disulfiram program, please call (888) 355-1676 today to speak with one of our admissions specialists.

    Disulfiram Treatment Information and Statistics in California

    • In 1951, disulfiram was the first medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat chronic alcohol use disorder (AUD).
    • JAMA Psychiatry showcased a 1973 study in which disulfiram maintenance was shown to be significantly superior in keeping patients in treatment and encouraging their sobriety.
    • In 2019, the National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services reported that out of 1,797 substance abuse treatment centers in California, there were 474 that provided disulfiram treatment.
    • According to the Mayo Clinic, taking disulfiram can enhance the effects of other central nervous system depressants, which are medications that slow down the nervous system and may lead to drowsiness. Examples of these depressants include antihistamines or medications for hay fever, allergies, or colds; sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping aids; prescription pain medications or narcotics; barbiturates; seizure medications; muscle relaxants; and anesthetics, including certain dental anesthetics.
    • In 2011, the National Library of Medicine revealed in a study that 16.6% of substance use programs were early adopters of disulfiram who sustained use over time, 13.0% were later adopters, 15.2% discontinued use of disulfiram, 55.2% were consistent nonadopters of this medication.

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