ACAMPROSATE

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Campral

GENERIC NAME(S): ACAMPROSATE CALCIUM

 

Description: Acamprosate affects the balance of GABA and glutamate neurotransmitters.  The drug is excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

Acamprosate is used to help alcohol-dependent patients keep from drinking alcohol by restoring the natural balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. You must have stopped drinking alcohol when you start this medication because otherwise it loses is effectiveness.

How to use acamprosate

  • Take by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor
  • Swallow the tablets whole
  • Do not crush or chew the tablets

Some of the side effects include: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gas, stomach pain, loss of appetite, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, fatigue, weight gain/loss, muscle/joint pain, change in sexual desire or decreased sexual ability may occur.

Unlikely but serious side effects occur:

• mental/mood changes (including severe depression, thoughts of suicide)

• fainting

• fast or pounding heartbeat

• vision or hearing changes

• increased thirst.

Rare but very serious side effects occur:

• change in the amount of urine, seizures, persistent stomach pain, black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

If you experience these symptoms and In case of allergic reactions, consult your doctor immediately.

Precautions

Refrain from doing activities that requires alertness, such as driving or using machines because this drug may make you dizzy or drowsy.

During pregnancy, use this drug only when clearly needed.

Alcohol during pregnancy causes Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (birth defects, growth retardation, and learning disabilities).

It is not yet known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

 

Interactions

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use as any of the ingredients may interact with Acamprosate.

Overdose

Get emergency medical help when overdose is suspected.

Missed Dose: As soon as you remember, take a regular dose or if the time of the next dose is near, wait for it before taking another dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not increase the dose to compensate for the missed dose.

Storage: Store medications in Room temperature. Do not expose to light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom Keep all medications away from pets and children. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour into a drain.

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