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Acamprosate calcium

Generic name: Acamprosate calcium
Brand names: Campral

Why is Acamprosate calcium prescribed?

Acamprosate calcium is prescribed to treat alcohol dependence. It helps people who have already stopped drinking alcohol keep from starting again.

You must be alcohol-free before taking Acamprosate calcium for it to work. You must also be prepared to follow a complete alcohol treatment plan that includes mental and behavioral health counseling.

Acamprosate calcium is thought to work by restoring and regulating brain chemicals that have been disrupted by long-term exposure to alcohol. Acamprosate calcium is not used for any type of substance dependence other than alcohol.

Most important fact about Acamprosate calcium

Individuals being treated with Acamprosate calcium and their caregivers should be aware that alcohol dependence and mental health problems frequently occur together. Pay special attention to any worsening of depression or any new symptoms that occur while taking Acamprosate calcium--especially agitation, anxiety, hostility, and suicidal thoughts or behavior--and report them to the doctor immediately.

How should you take Acamprosate calcium?

Acamprosate calcium may be taken with food or on an empty stomach. However, taking it with meals may make it easier to keep on a regular schedule. Continue taking Acamprosate calcium regularly even if you experience a relapse.

--If you miss a dose...

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Acamprosate calcium.

• More common side effects may include:
  Anxiety, body pain or weakness, chest pain, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, heart failure, insomnia, irregular heartbeat, kidney failure, nausea, seizure, sudden death, and suicidal thinking or suicide attempt

Why should Acamprosate calcium not be prescribed?

You cannot use Acamprosate calcium if you have severe kidney disease. You must also avoid the drug if it causes an allergic reaction.

Special warnings about Acamprosate calcium

You must completely avoid alcohol while taking Acamprosate calcium. If you begin drinking again, keep taking Acamprosate calcium and call your doctor right away to discuss your relapse. Acamprosate calcium does not relieve the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

Use Acamprosate calcium with caution if you have kidney problems.

Because mental health problems and alcoholism frequently occur together, tell your doctor about any change in mood or behavior while using Acamprosate calcium (see "Most important fact about Acamprosate calcium").

Acamprosate calcium could affect your judgment, thinking, or motor skills. Do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or participate in hazardous activities until you know how Acamprosate calcium affects you.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Acamprosate calcium

At this time, there are no documented drug interactions with Acamprosate calcium. However, you should always tell the doctor about any medicines you take, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Acamprosate calcium has not been studied in pregnant women and should be used only if the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Be sure to tell your doctor if you"re pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

In lab studies Acamprosate calcium showed up in the milk of breastfeeding animals. It is not known whether Acamprosate calcium appears in human breast milk. Your doctor may advise you not to breastfeed while taking Acamprosate calcium.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

The usual starting dose is two tablets (each tablet contains 333 milligrams) taken three times a day, for a total of six tablets a day. Your doctor may lower the dose as needed.

People with moderate kidney disease take half the regular dose - one tablet three times a day.

CHILDREN

The safety and effectiveness of Acamprosate calcium have not been studied in children.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency treatment immediately.

• Symptoms of overdose may include:
  Diarrhea