Acamprol 333 mg is a prescription medication specifically formulated for the maintenance of abstinence from alcohol in patients with alcohol dependence who are abstinent at treatment initiation. It functions as a neuromodulator, targeting the glutamatergic and GABAergic systems to help reduce the craving and withdrawal symptoms associated with alcohol cessation. This product is an essential component of a comprehensive management program that includes psychosocial support. Its delayed-release tablet formulation ensures consistent delivery of the active ingredient, calcium acetylhomotaurinate, to support long-term therapy.

Features

• Active ingredient: Calcium acetylhomotaurinate 333 mg per tablet
• Pharmaceutical form: Enteric-coated (gastro-resistant) tablets
• Pack sizes: Typically available in packs of 84 or 168 tablets
• Administration: Oral
• Special storage requirements: Store below 30°C in a dry place
• Manufacturer: Authorized pharmaceutical companies under license
• Regulatory status: Prescription-only medication

Benefits

• Helps reduce the physiological craving for alcohol by modulating neurotransmitter systems involved in dependence
• Supports the maintenance of abstinence as part of a comprehensive treatment program
• May alleviate certain withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia
• Provides a non-habit forming pharmacological approach to alcohol dependence management
• Allows patients to focus on psychosocial aspects of recovery with reduced alcohol-seeking behavior
• Suitable for long-term maintenance therapy in compliant patients

Common use

Acamprol 333 mg is primarily indicated for the maintenance of abstinence in alcohol-dependent patients. It is used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes psychological and social support. The medication is typically initiated once the patient has achieved abstinence from alcohol, as it is not indicated for the treatment of acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Treatment is usually continued for as long as the therapeutic benefit persists, often for several months to years, depending on individual patient response and clinical assessment.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dose for adults is two 333 mg tablets taken three times daily (total daily dose: 1998 mg). Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should not be crushed or chewed. Administration should ideally occur with meals to improve gastrointestinal tolerance. Treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after achieving abstinence and continued for as long as the therapeutic effect is maintained. Dosage adjustment is recommended in patients with moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30-50 mL/min): one tablet three times daily. Not recommended in severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min).

Precautions

Hepatic function should be monitored during treatment, although acamprosate is not metabolized by the liver. Renal function should be assessed before initiation and periodically during treatment, with dose adjustment in renal impairment. Use with caution in patients with a history of depression or suicidal ideation, as alcohol-dependent patients are at increased risk for depression. Patients should be advised that Acamprol does not eliminate or reduce withdrawal symptoms. Driving and operating machinery may be affected, especially during the initial treatment period. Pregnancy and lactation require careful risk-benefit assessment under specialist supervision.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to acamprosate calcium or any excipients in the formulation. Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min). The safety and efficacy in children and adolescents under 18 years have not been established. Concomitant use with drugs that may interact adversely with acamprosate without appropriate monitoring.

Possible side effects

Common side effects (≥1/100 to <1/10) include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, pruritus, and various skin reactions. Uncommon side effects (≥1/1,000 to <1/100) may include vomiting, flatulence, dry mouth, and changes in libido. Rare side effects (<1/1,000) include suicidal ideation, although a causal relationship has not been clearly established. Most adverse reactions are mild to moderate and often transient, typically occurring early in treatment.

Drug interaction

No clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions have been observed with antidepressants, anxiolytics, hypnotics, or disulfiram. Theoretical potential for interaction with other drugs acting on the CNS. Caution with drugs that affect renal function due to primarily renal excretion of acamprosate. No interaction with alcohol itself, though consumption during treatment undermines therapeutic goals.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed dose. Consistent daily dosing is important for maintaining stable plasma concentrations and therapeutic effect.

Overdose

Experience with acamprosate overdose is limited. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea) and possibly electrolyte imbalances due to the calcium content. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis may be effective in removing acamprosate from the blood due to its low molecular weight and low protein binding. In case of suspected overdose, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Storage

Store below 30°C in the original packaging to protect from moisture. Keep the container tightly closed. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not dispose of medications via wastewater or household waste—return unused medication to pharmacy for proper disposal.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Acamprol 333 mg is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The prescribing physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment decisions. Individual patient responses may vary, and not all side effects are listed here. Patients should report any adverse reactions to their healthcare provider.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated that acamprosate significantly increases the abstinence rate compared to placebo when used as part of a comprehensive treatment program. Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials show a number needed to treat of approximately 9 to prevent one relapse to any drinking. Many clinicians report satisfactory results in motivated patients who adhere to treatment. Patient experiences vary, with some reporting reduced craving and improved ability to maintain abstinence, while others may experience limited benefit. The medication is generally well-tolerated with most adverse effects being gastrointestinal and transient in nature.