Acamprosate: functions, dosage, side effects, how to use it

Use

What is Acamprosate for?

Acamprosate is generally used to help alcohol-dependent patients stop drinking alcohol. Acamprosate should be used as part of a complete program of therapy that includes psychological counseling and support. Acamprosate is believed to work by restoring the natural balance of chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters).

Before using this medicine you must have stopped drinking alcohol. Acamprosate has not been shown to be effective if you were still drinking alcohol when you started this medication.

What are the rules for using Acamprosate?

Take this medication with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 3 times a day. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Take this medicine regularly to get optimal benefits. To help you remember, take this medication at the same time each day. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

If you start consuming alcohol again, continue taking this medication but tell your doctor.

How to store Acamprosate?

This medication is best stored at room temperature, away from direct light and damp places. Don't keep it in the bathroom. Don't freeze it. Other brands of this drug may have different storage rules. Observe the storage instructions on the product package or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medicines down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Discard this product when it has expired or when it is no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about how to safely dispose of your product.

Dose

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the dosage of Acamprosate for adults?

Dosage for alcohol dependence: 666 mg orally 3 times a day

Because elderly patients are more prone to decreased renal function, the drug manufacturers recommend more attention in dosage selection and more monitoring of renal function during therapy.

What is the dosage of Acamprosate for children?

There is no provision for the dosage of this drug for children. This medicine can be dangerous for children. It is important to understand the safety of drugs before use. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

In what dosage and preparation is Acamprosate available?

Acamprosate is available in the following dosages: Delayed Release Tablet, Oral: 333 mg

Side effects

What side effects may occur due to Acamprosate?

Seek immediate medical help if you experience any of the following signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your doctor right away if you experience serious side effects, such as:

• Changes in mood and behavior
• Thoughts of hurting yourself
• Severe anxiety or depression
• Feel like passing out
• Heart beat fast
• Swelling, weight gain, shortness of breath
• Dazed, feeling thirsty
• Urinating less or not at all.

Less serious side effects, such as:

• Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite
• Constipation, diarrhea
• Headache, dizziness, drowsiness
• Disturbances with memory and thoughts
• Weakness, fever or flu-like symptoms
• Back pain, joint or muscle pain
• Dry mouth, reduced or disturbed sense of taste
• Sleep disturbance (insomnia)
• Impotence, loss of sex drive
• Sweating, mild skin rash
• Numbness or tingling sensation.

Not everyone experiences the following side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have concerns about certain side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions & Warnings

What should be known before using Acamprosate?

Several medical conditions can interact with Acamprosate. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially:

• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
• If you are currently taking any medicines with or without a prescription, herbal preparations or dietary supplements
• If you have allergies to drugs, food, or other substances
• If you have kidney problems or a history of depression or suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Several drugs can interact with Acamprosate. However, the specific interactions with Acamprosate are still unknown. PasteTextHere

Is Acamprosate safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

There are no adequate studies regarding the risks of using this drug in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Always consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using this medication. This drug is included in the risk of pregnancy category C according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The following references the pregnancy risk categories according to the FDA:

• A = No risk,
• B = not at risk in several studies,
• C = May be risky,
• D = There is positive evidence of risk,
• X = Contraindicated,
• N = Unknown

Interaction

What medicines may interact with Acamprosate?

Drug interactions can change the performance of your medications or increase the risk of serious side effects. Not all possible drug interactions are listed in this document. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription / non-prescription drugs and herbal products) and consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without your doctor's approval.

Although some drugs should not be taken at the same time, in other cases some drugs can also be used together even though interactions may occur. In such cases, the doctor may change the dose, or take other preventive measures as needed. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other over-the-counter or prescription drugs.

Can food or alcohol interact with Acamprosate?

Certain drugs should not be used with meals or when eating certain foods because drug interactions can occur. Consuming alcohol or tobacco with certain drugs can also cause interactions to occur. Discuss your use of drugs with food, alcohol, or tobacco with your health care provider.

What health conditions may interact with Acamprosate?

Any other health conditions you have can affect the use of this drug. Always tell your doctor if you have other health problems, especially:

• Kidney disease (severe) - Acamprosate is not recommended, serious side effects can occur
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts - Acamprosate can make the condition worse.

Overdose

What should I do in an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact the local emergency services provider (119) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.

Symptoms of an overdose can include diarrhea.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, when it is nearing the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Don't double the dose.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.