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Acamprosate (Campral®): Basic Information

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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