Acamprosate
Acamprosate Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Acamprosate is a brand name. Its generic name is Acamprosate.
Acamprosate Introduction
Acamprosate (also known as Campral) is an effective medication used to treat alcohol dependence. It works by reducing alcohol cravings and helping to prevent relapse in people who have become physically and psychologically dependent on alcohol. Acamprosate helps to prevent the physical and psychological cravings for alcohol, and can increase a person's ability to stay sober.
Uses for Acamprosate
Acamprosate is commonly used to treat alcoholism. It is believed to work by reducing alcohol cravings and the desire to drink, by decreasing the physical and psychological effects of alcohol withdrawal, and by helping to restore normal brain chemistry. Acamprosate is most effective when used together with other treatments for alcoholism, such as counseling and support groups.
Mechanism of Action
Acamprosate works by affecting certain neurotransmitters in the brain that are associated with alcohol cravings and addiction. It is believed to inhibit the release of the excitatory neurotransmitters glutamate and aspartate. By reducing the activity of these neurotransmitters, acamprosate helps to reduce the physical and psychological cravings for alcohol and can increase a person's ability to stay sober.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
Acamprosate usually begins to work within one to two weeks. However, it is important to note that it can take up to several months for the full effects of acamprosate to be felt.
Absorption
Acamprosate is absorbable, with an average bioavailability of approximately 90%.
Route of Elimination
Acamprosate is eliminated mainly through the kidneys. Approximately 70–80% of the dose is eliminated unchanged in the urine, with the remainder being eliminated mainly as metabolites.
Dosage
The usual adult dosage of acamprosate is three tablets per day (2 tablets taken twice a day or 4 tablets taken once a day). It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by the doctor and follow any directions given on the medication container.
Administration
Acamprosate should be taken orally with water or other liquids. It should be taken with food or shortly after eating. The medication works best when taken on a regular schedule.
Side Effects
Common side effects of acamprosate may include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, anxiety, insomnia, and nervousness. Less common side effects may include rash, hives, itching, abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea.
Toxicity
Acamprosate is generally well tolerated and no serious side effects have been reported. The maximum recommended daily dose is 6 tablets per day (3 tablets twice a day).
Precaution
Acamprosate should not be used in people with severe or uncontrolled liver or kidney disease. It should also not be used in pregnant or breastfeeding women. People taking anticoagulants, anti-seizure medications, or other medications used to treat alcohol dependence should use acamprosate with caution.
Interactions
Acamprosate may interact with other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications (prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, herbs, etc.) that you are taking before using acamprosate.
Disease Interaction
Acamprosate should be used with caution in people with kidney or liver disease. People with seizure disorders, diabetes, or other medical conditions should use acamprosate with caution.
Drug Interaction
Acamprosate may interact with other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications (prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, herbs, etc.) that you are taking before using acamprosate.
Food Interactions
Acamprosate should be taken with food or shortly after eating.
Pregnancy Use
Acamprosate should not be used during pregnancy.
Lactation Use
Acamprosate should not be used when breastfeeding.
Acute Overdose
An overdose of acamprosate can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and drowsiness. If an overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center and seek medical attention immediately.
Contraindication
Acamprosate should not be used in people with severe or uncontrolled liver or kidney disease, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Use Direction
Acamprosate should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor and following directions on the medication container.
Storage Condition
Acamprosate is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from pets and children.
Volume of Distribution
Acamprosate has an average volume of distribution of approximately 1.3L/kg.
Half Life
Acamprosate has an average half life of 1–1.4 hours.
Clearance
Acamprosate has an average total clearance of 4–5 mL/min/kg.
Here you find in details version of Acamprosate