How long does it take for acamprosate to work?
Acamprosate usually takes several days to a week to start working fully. About five days after you start taking this medication, you’ll reach a point where the amount of acamprosate in your system will remain at a consistent level if you continue to take it as prescribed.
Acamprosate comes in the form of a delayed-release tablet. The recommended dose of acamprosate is two tablets taken three times a day with or without food.
Acamprosate is used to help prevent the cravings and urge to drink alcohol that people with alcohol use disorder experience. It is not used to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms, but is instead prescribed after alcohol detox has been completed to help prevent a relapse.
Acamprosate is also known by the name Campral, which is a discontinued brand name of the drug. Various generic versions of acamprosate are currently available.
References
- Alcohol Rehab Guide. Acamprosate. February 25, 2022. [Accessed 28 September, 2022]. Available from: https://www.alcoholrehabguide.org/treatment/acamprosate/
- National Library of Medicine. Glenmark Generics Acamprosate Calcium Product Label. [Accessed 28 September, 2022]. Available from: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=43e9ef60-2d85-4394-906b-93042fea099a&audience=consumer
Drug information
- Acamprosate Information for Consumers
- Acamprosate prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Acamprosate (detailed)
Related support groups
- Acamprosate (5 questions, 24 members)
- Alcoholism (17 questions, 82 members)
