Acamprosate

Acamprosate helps adults with alcohol use disorder maintain abstinence after they have stopped drinking. It works alongside counseling, recovery support, and an agreed treatment plan.

It does not treat alcohol withdrawal or prevent its complications. If you drink heavily or have had withdrawal seizures, consult with your provider before stopping alcohol.

Repeated alcohol exposure changes the balance between calming and stimulating signals in the brain. Acamprosate affects this signaling during recovery and can help make continued abstinence more manageable.

Treatment supports ongoing recovery; it does not create an immediate feeling of calm or remove every craving. The benefit is assessed by drinking patterns, cravings, and progress toward your goals.

Keep follow-up visits even when recovery is going well. Schedule an earlier appointment if your mood gets worse.

• Start after withdrawal treatment and alcohol abstinence, as directed. Swallow tablets whole; do not crush or chew.
• Take with or without food. Linking doses to regular meals may make them easier to remember.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose. Then skip it. Do not double a dose.
• If you drink while taking it, continue your prescribed medication and contact your provider. Review what led to drinking and what support would help.

• Diarrhea or stomach discomfort
• Nausea, gas, or reduced appetite
• Dizziness, itching, or trouble sleeping

Some side effects resolve with time; others may require a change of medication. Discuss persistent or bothersome side effects with your provider.

Kidney function should be checked before starting. Report persistent diarrhea, dehydration, low mood, or new suicidal thoughts.

Track alcohol use and situations that trigger cravings. A return to drinking is a reason to adjust care, not to abandon treatment.

For a suspected overdose, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately, even if you feel well. Call 911 for a seizure, collapse, trouble breathing, or inability to wake.

Do not use acamprosate with severe kidney impairment. Tell your provider about kidney disease, depression, and any previous reaction to this medication.

Discuss pregnancy, pregnancy plans, and breastfeeding with your provider. Treatment decisions should consider both the medication and the condition being treated.

Review all your medications with your provider, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. Have new medications checked before taking them.

Acamprosate has relatively few drug interactions, but your full list still matters, especially if kidney function changes. It does not protect you from the effects of alcohol or from interactions involving other medicines.

Plan for the midday dose when away from home.

Keep recovery contacts and a plan for cravings available.

Discuss ongoing diarrhea rather than cutting doses yourself.

Keep medication in its labeled container, away from excess heat and moisture and out of reach of children and pets. Do not share it. Ask a pharmacy about disposal of unused medication.