TabletsClinical Overview
Acamprosate Calcium (calcium bis-acetylhomotaurinate) is a neuromodulator on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for alcohol dependence. Chronic alcohol exposure disrupts the balance between central excitation and inhibition; acamprosate restores this equilibrium by antagonizing hyperactive NMDA glutamate receptors and modulating GABAA neurotransmission, substantially reducing post-abstinence neurobiological craving and withdrawal distress. Indicated for the maintenance of abstinence from alcohol in alcohol-dependent patients.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Take orally with meals with water. Standard adult dose is two tablets three times daily with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Taking with meals minimizes gastrointestinal adverse effects. Therapy should continue even if relapse occurs.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Diarrhea (most frequent, usually transient), abdominal pain, nausea, flatulence, pruritus, fatigue, somnolence. Rare/Severe: Suicidal ideation, depression, severe renal failure, and hypersensitivity reactions.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <= 30 mL/min); dose reduction required in moderate renal impairment. Monitor for depression and emergence of suicidal thoughts. Does not cause disulfiram-like reactions with alcohol.
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a registered medical practitioner or qualified pharmacist before initiating, modifying, or substituting any medication regimen.