Acamprosate
Acamprosate is a medication used to support alcohol abstinence in patients with alcohol dependence as part of a comprehensive treatment program. It is thought to work by helping to restore the natural balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition that becomes disrupted with chronic alcohol use. This medication helps reduce cravings and the urge to drink, supporting long-term recovery efforts.
Acamprosate is used to help maintain alcohol abstinence by reducing cravings and restoring brain chemical balance disrupted by chronic alcohol use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N07BB03
- RxNorm
- 82819
- Generic
- Acamprosate
- Class
- atc-n07
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh potential risks to fetus
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
continue only if alcohol abstinence benefits outweigh risks
fetal growth monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingnot recommended
breastfeeding not recommended during treatment due to unknown excretion into breast milk
monitor infant for adverse effects
pediatric_age
under 18 yearsnot applicable
not approved for use in patients under 18 years of age
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
over 65 yearsdose reduction may be needed
use with caution due to age-related decline in renal function; monitor renal function regularly
monitor renal function and adjust dose accordingly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severe crcl less 30do not use
contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment
renal function testing required before and during treatment
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
renal_impairment
moderate crcl 30 50reduce dose to 333mg twice daily
dose reduction recommended; monitor renal function closely
regular monitoring of creatinine clearance
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild moderateno adjustment needed
no dose adjustment required; not extensively metabolized by liver
standard monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
FDA approved Acamprosate for treatment of alcohol dependence
Drug class
ATC classification: N07BB01 - Other drugs used in addictive disorders
Common uses
Indicated for maintenance of abstinence from alcohol in patients with alcohol dependence
Acamprosate is indicated for the maintenance of abstinence from alcohol in patients with alcohol dependence. It should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes psychosocial support and counseling.
The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but acamprosate is thought to normalize the balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition that chronic alcohol exposure disrupts. It may interact with glutamate and GABA neurotransmitter systems in the brain.
Acamprosate does not eliminate alcohol withdrawal symptoms and should not be used during active alcohol consumption. It is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment. Common side effects may include diarrhea, headache, and nausea. Treatment effectiveness increases with compliance and concurrent psychosocial interventions.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy