Acamprosate Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 31, 2020.

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Usual Adult Dose for Alcohol Dependence

666 mg orally 3 times a day

Comments:
-Doses should be taken with meals in patients who regularly eat 3 meals a day.
-Treatment should begin as soon as possible after the withdrawal period (when the patient achieves abstinence) and should be maintained if the patient relapses.
-This drug should be used as part of a comprehensive psychosocial treatment program.
-Lower doses may be effective in some patients.

Use: For the maintenance of abstinence from alcohol in patients with alcohol dependence who are abstinent at treatment initiation

Renal Dose Adjustments

Mild renal dysfunction (CrCl greater than 50 mL/min): Data not available

Moderate renal dysfunction (CrCl 30 to 50 mL/min):
-Initial dose: 333 mg orally 3 times a day
-Maintenance dose: 333 to 666 mg orally 3 times a day

Severe renal dysfunction (CrCl 30 mL/min and less): Contraindicated

Liver Dose Adjustments

Mild to moderate liver dysfunction (Child-Pugh Classes A and B): No adjustment recommended.
Severe liver dysfunction (Child-Pugh Class C): Data not available

Precautions

CONTRAINDICATIONS:
-Hypersensitivity to the active component or any of the ingredients
-Severe renal dysfunction (CrCl less 30 mL/min or less)

Safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:
-Tablets should be swallowed whole; crushing or chewing should be avoided.
-Doses should be administered with meals.

General:
-Limitation of use: Treatment does not constitute treatment for the withdrawal period.
-Limitation of use: The efficacy in promoting abstinence from alcohol in patients with polysubstance abuse has not been adequately assessed.
-Limitation of use: Efficacy has not been demonstrated in promoting abstinence in patients who have not undergone detoxification and achieved abstinence prior to beginning treatment.
-Treatment does not prevent harmful effects of continuous alcohol abuse, and continued alcohol abuse negates therapeutic benefits of this drug.

Monitoring:
-PSYCHIATRIC: Signs/symptoms of depression and suicidality

Patient advice:
-Counsel patients regarding the signs and symptoms of depression and suicidality; instruct patients to contact their physician immediately if signs or symptoms occur.
-Advise patients to speak to their healthcare provider if they become pregnant, intend to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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