Acamprol: Effective Management of Alcohol Dependence
| Product dosage: 333 mg | |||
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Synonyms | |||
Acamprol (acamprosate calcium) is a prescription medication specifically developed to support the maintenance of abstinence in alcohol-dependent patients who have achieved initial withdrawal. It functions by helping to restore the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which are often disrupted by chronic alcohol consumption. By stabilizing neuronal activity, Acamprol reduces the psychological distress and craving associated with alcohol withdrawal, thereby supporting long-term recovery as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and psychosocial support.
Features
- Contains acamprosate calcium as the active ingredient
- Delayed-release tablet formulation for consistent effect
- Standard strength: 333 mg enteric-coated tablets
- Designed for oral administration, typically taken three times daily
- Requires prescription and medical supervision
Benefits
- Reduces the urge to consume alcohol in abstinent patients
- Helps restore neurochemical balance disrupted by chronic alcohol use
- Supports long-term abstinence when combined with psychosocial therapy
- Generally well-tolerated with a favorable side effect profile
- Does not cause sedation or interact with alcohol’s intoxicating effects
- Non-addictive and does not produce euphoria or dependence
Common use
Acamprol is indicated for the maintenance of abstinence from alcohol in patients with alcohol dependence who are abstinent at treatment initiation. It is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive management program that includes psychological support, counseling, and social rehabilitation. Treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after the acute withdrawal period and typically continues for as long as the patient benefits from therapy, often for one year or longer depending on individual response and clinical judgment.
Dosage and direction
The recommended dose of Acamprol for most patients is two 333 mg tablets taken three times daily (total daily dose 1998 mg). Patients with moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30-50 mL/min) should receive a reduced dose of one 333 mg tablet three times daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed or chewed. Acamprol can be taken with or without food, though consistent administration with meals may help improve compliance. Treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after abstinence is achieved and continued even if the patient has a relapse.
Precautions
Patients should be monitored for the emergence of depression or suicidal thoughts, as alcohol-dependent patients are at increased risk for these conditions. Renal function should be assessed before initiation and periodically during treatment, with dosage adjustment for patients with renal impairment. Use with caution in patients with a history of depression or suicidal ideation. Acamprol does not eliminate or diminish withdrawal symptoms, and patients should be advised that the medication is most effective when combined with ongoing counseling and support programs. Driving and operating machinery may be impaired if sedation occurs.
Contraindications
Acamprol is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance ≤30 mL/min). It should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to acamprosate calcium or any of the excipients in the formulation. The safety of Acamprol during pregnancy has not been established, and it should be avoided unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Not recommended for use in patients under 18 years of age due to insufficient safety and efficacy data.
Possible side effects
The most commonly reported adverse reactions include diarrhea (occurring in approximately 10-17% of patients), nausea, abdominal pain, and pruritus. Other reported side effects may include headache, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and asthenia. Most side effects are mild to moderate in intensity and often diminish with continued treatment. Rare cases of suicidal ideation and suicide attempt have been reported, though a causal relationship has not been established. Patients should report any persistent or severe side effects to their healthcare provider.
Drug interaction
Formal drug interaction studies have shown no clinically significant interactions with antidepressants, anxiolytics, hypnotics, or other medications commonly used in alcohol dependence treatment. However, as Acamprol is eliminated renally and does not undergo hepatic metabolism, interactions with drugs that affect renal function should be considered. Concurrent use with naltrexone may increase the incidence of diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. Although no interaction with alcohol has been demonstrated, consumption of alcohol during treatment is countertherapeutic.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Consistent adherence to the prescribed dosing regimen is important for maintaining therapeutic effect, and patients should discuss any pattern of missed doses with their healthcare provider.
Overdose
Cases of overdose with Acamprol have been reported with doses up to 56 grams. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, nausea), dizziness, and electrolyte imbalance. There is no specific antidote for acamprosate overdose. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive, with particular attention to electrolyte balance and hydration. Gastric lavage may be considered if performed soon after ingestion. Hemodialysis may be effective in removing acamprosate from the blood due to its low molecular weight and minimal protein binding.
Storage
Store Acamprol tablets at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in their original container, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication according to local regulations, preferably through a medicine take-back program.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any treatment regimen. The prescribing physician should be aware of the complete medical history of the patient, including all medications being taken. Individual results may vary, and not all patients will experience the same benefits or side effects.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate that Acamprol significantly increases the cumulative abstinence rate compared to placebo, with a number needed to treat (NNT) of approximately 9-12 for maintaining complete abstinence over 3-6 months. In meta-analyses, acamprosate has shown to increase the percentage of abstinent days by 10-15% over placebo. Many clinicians report that patients who adhere to treatment experience reduced craving and improved ability to participate in psychosocial therapies. Patient feedback often indicates that the medication helps “take the edge off” alcohol cravings without causing significant sedation or cognitive impairment. Long-term follow-up studies suggest that benefits may persist beyond the treatment period when combined with comprehensive rehabilitation programs.