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Acamprosate

Uses of Acamprosate

  • The primary use of Acamprosate is to help maintain abstinence from alcohol in patients diagnosed with alcohol dependence. It belongs to the class of medications known as GABA analogues.

  • There are no known secondary uses of this medication.

Side effects of Acamprosate

  • Diarrhoea

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Abdominal pain

  • Flatulence

How Acamprosate works

  • Acamprosate is an alcohol dependence management medication.

  • It is believed to modulate the actions of the neurotransmitter systems in the brain, particularly the glutamatergic system and GABA receptor system. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that enable communication within the brain.

  • Acamprosate acts as an antagonist at the NMDA receptor, a kind of receptor in the brain that responds to glutamate, the primary excitatory neurotransmitter. By blocking these receptors, it helps to reduce excess activity caused by alcohol withdrawal.

  • It also has indirect effects on GABA-A receptor transmission. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which means it slows down brain activity. By influencing this system, Acamprosate helps to restore balance in the brain and reduce alcohol cravings.

Certified content

Written By

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Dr. Michelle FrankMedical Content Writer| 8 years

Doctor of Medicine

Reviewed By

Dr. Chhavi Rosha
Dr. Chhavi Rosha Health & Medical Content Writer| 8 years

BMS, FMC, MD Resident

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

  • Acamprosate is available as an oral delayed-release tablet that is administered orally.

Age and Dose Restrictions

  • Acamprosate is intended for use in adults. It is not recommended for children or adolescents under the age of 18.

Contraindications

  • Acamprosate is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment, specifically with creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min.

Other Medications to Avoid

  • Acamprosate does not have significant interactions with other medications according to the available research data. However, it is always necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription and non-prescription medications you are taking before initiating treatment with Acamprosate.

Overdose and Missed Dose

  • In case of an overdose of Acamprosate, it is essential to contact your doctor immediately. While the side effects of overdose are not well-studied, it's better to seek medical attention promptly.

  • If a dose of Acamprosate is missed, you should take it as soon as you remember. If it's already time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up the doses to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve after discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

  • Drinking plenty of water can help manage common side effects such as diarrhoea.

  • Taking Acamprosate with meals can help minimise gastrointestinal discomfort.

  • Resting and avoiding strenuous activities may help manage fatigue and dizziness associated with Acamprosate.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

  • Acamprosate may cause dizziness or fatigue, which could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It's advisable to avoid such activities until you know how this medicine affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

  • The safety of Acamprosate during pregnancy and lactation is not fully established. Therefore, it should only be used when clearly needed, and after thorough discussion with your doctor.

Caution in Other Conditions

  • Acamprosate should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease, as dosage adjustments may be necessary based on renal function. It's essential to inform your doctor about any kidney problems before starting treatment with Acamprosate.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Engage in regular physical activity and maintain a balanced diet to support overall health.

  • Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Acamprosate, as it is intended to support abstinence from alcohol.

  • Consider joining support groups or counselling services that can help maintain abstinence from alcohol.

  • Practice stress management techniques such as meditation and relaxation exercises, as stress can often trigger cravings for alcohol.

  • Get adequate sleep as disrupted sleep patterns can affect mood and increase the risk of relapse.

Frequently asked questions

No, Acamprosate is not a depressant. It is a medication used to maintain abstinence from alcohol in those suffering from alcohol dependence.

Although Acamprosate is primarily used to manage cravings and maintain abstinence from alcohol, it may cause mood changes such as anxiety and depression in some individuals.

There is no substantial evidence to suggest that Acamprosate causes weight gain. However, your weight could change as your body adjusts to being alcohol-free.

There is no scientific evidence that supports the claim that Acamprosate directly affects appetite.

Yes, there are no animal-derived ingredients in Acamprosate, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Abruptly stopping Acamprosate might increase the risk of a relapse into alcohol use, therefore it is advisable to consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication regime.

There are no scientifically verified natural alternatives to Acamprosate that have been shown to be effective in maintaining abstinence from alcohol. However, lifestyle modifications like healthy diet and regular exercise alongside counselling and support can complement the efficacy of Acamprosate.

Terms & Conditions

Available medicines for ACAMPROSATE
Campsate 333 MG Tablet 10
Campsate 333 MG Tablet 10
Tripada Healthcare Pvt Ltd
Pack of 10 Units
₹70.86
MRP ₹86.41
18.00% OFF
Acamprol Tablet 6
Acamprol Tablet 6
Sun Pharma Laboratories Ltd.
Pack of 6 Units
₹93.48
MRP ₹114.00
18.00% OFF
Acampcon 333 MG Tablet 10
Acampcon 333 MG Tablet 10
Consern Pharma Limited
Pack of 10 Units
₹112.34
MRP ₹137.00
18.00% OFF
Acmacal Tablet 10
Acmacal Tablet 10
Psycormedies
Pack of 10 Units
₹81.35
MRP ₹99.21
18.00% OFF
Acampure 333 Tablet 6
Acampure 333 Tablet 6
Steris Healthcare
Pack of 6 Units
₹51.70
MRP ₹93.00
44.41% OFF
Acmanet 333 MG Tablet 10
Acmanet 333 MG Tablet 10
Shatayushi Healthcare Pvt Ltd
Pack of 10 Units
₹86.92
MRP ₹106.00
18.00% OFF
Camprosys 333 MG Tablet 10
Camprosys 333 MG Tablet 10
Neosys Medicare
Pack of 10 Units
₹88.56
MRP ₹108.00
18.00% OFF
Acamptas 333 Tablet 6
Acamptas 333 Tablet 6
Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Pack of 6 Units
₹87.33
MRP ₹106.50
18.00% OFF

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