Acamprosate (US brand name Campral® and generic) is a medication used for the treatment of alcohol dependence. Here is basic information about this medication.
For links to other articles on this website about this medication and related topics, please see Related Pages below.
FDA-approved indications
Maintenance of abstinence from alcohol in patients with alcohol dependence who are abstinent at treatment initiation
Dosage
666 mg (two 333 mg tablets) orally three times daily
Important information
It is suggested (not mandatory) that acamprosate be taken with meals in patients who regularly eat three daily meals.
Acamprosate should be initiated as soon as possible after the period of alcohol withdrawal, when the patient has achieved abstinence, and should be maintained if the patient relapses.
Acamprosate should be used as part of a comprehensive psychosocial treatment program
Special cases
Moderate renal impairment (Creatinine Clearance 30-50 mL/min): 333 mg, three times daily
Severe renal impairment (Creatinine Clearance ≤30 mL/min): Contraindicated
Dosage forms and strengths
Delayed-Release tablets: 333 mg
Please refer to Prescribing Information (see link below) for complete discussion of dosage, administration, warnings and precautions, contraindications, etc.
For important tips on how to use acamprosate for alcohol use disorder, see
Tips on using acamprosate for alcohol use disorder
Important!
Please refer to the full Prescribing Information (see link below) before prescribing this medication.
Related Pages
Tips on using acamprosate for alcohol use disorder
Tips on using naltrexone for alcohol use disorder
APA Practice Guideline for the Pharmacological Treatment of Patients With Alcohol Use Disorder
How to use disulfiram to help with alcoholism
Tips on using naltrexone extended-release injectable (Vivitrol®)
How to order, store, and administer naltrexone extended-release injection (Vivitrol®)
How to screen for alcohol use disorder
How much alcohol intake is “normal”?
Three key statistics about alcohol use: Bad, worse, and worst news
Alcohol, not marijuana, is the real gateway drug
References
Prescribing information for acamprosate (Campral®)
Copyright © 2016, Rajnish Mago, MD. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced in any form without express written permission.
Disclaimer: The content on this website is provided as general education for medical professionals. It is not intended or recommended for patients or other laypersons or as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients must always consult a qualified health care professional regarding their diagnosis and treatment. Healthcare professionals should always check this website for the most recently updated information.
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