Acamprosate Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 28, 2025.

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.

Frequently asked questions

• Acamprosate vs naltrexone: How do they compare?
• Does acamprosate make you sick if you drink alcohol?
• How long does it take for acamprosate to work?
• Does acamprosate cause weight gain?
• How does acamprosate work?

See also:

Further information

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

Medical Disclaimer