Acamprosate
Acamprosate is used within an Addiction Recovery plan to help maintain abstinence after alcohol has been stopped. It does not treat acute alcohol withdrawal.
Key points
- Acamprosate supports abstinence but does not remove the need for counselling, follow-up or a withdrawal-safety plan.
- Kidney function is central to suitability because the medicine is cleared mainly through the kidneys.
- New suicidal thoughts, severe mood changes or a serious allergic reaction needs urgent help.
Listings are for comparison and general information; suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, kidney assessment and prescription requirements.
What acamprosate is used for
Acamprosate may help people with Alcohol Dependence remain abstinent. It does not cause an alcohol-deterrent reaction and is not a rescue treatment for cravings or withdrawal.
Important safety checks
Kidney disease, pregnancy, mood symptoms and all medicines should be reviewed. Diarrhoea is common and persistent symptoms can affect adherence or hydration.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for suicidal intent, facial or throat swelling, breathing difficulty, severe confusion or suspected overdose. Severe tremor, hallucinations or seizures after stopping alcohol may indicate dangerous withdrawal and needs emergency care.