Campral

(Acamprosate Calcium)

The active ingredient in Campral is acamprosate calcium. Acamprosate is an NMDA receptor modulator, which means its mechanism of action is not well understood. However, it is thought to reduce alcohol cravings by regulating specific brain chemicals, including gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Campral. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Campral:

• Begin taking Campral as soon as possible after you have stopped drinking.
• Can be consumed with or without a meal. If you have three meals per day, take the medication with each one.
• Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break it.
• Continue to take Campral as advised, even if you relapse and use alcohol. Tell your doctor about any alcohol you consume, regardless of the amount.
• Your treatment initiation will also entail psychosocial support and prolonged maintenance of abstinence.

The most common side effects of acamprosate seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Diarrhea.
• Physical weakness or fatigue.
• Depression.
• Dry mouth.
• Itchiness.
• Sweating.
• Weight gain.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Campral. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Depression, suicidal thoughts, or ideas.
• Allergic reaction to the medication, such as hives, skin rash, or swelling.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Campral. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Campral, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Severe kidney disease.
• Allergic to acamprosate.
• Cymbalta can have adverse effects that impair your thinking and emotions. Be cautious if you are driving or doing anything that requires you to be awake and aware. Even if you relapse and drink alcohol, continue taking Campral for the full duration of the prescription. While taking this medication, inform your doctor of any alcoholic beverages you take, regardless of quantity.

Hypersensitive adverse reactions.

Severe renal impairment.

Campral takes about a week to work. These tablets are time-released, which means that the medicine is released gradually. As a result, pills should always be consumed whole rather than crushed, chopped, or chewed.

When Campral is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

There are no interactions with Campral; however, it is best to speak to your healthcare provider before.

The typical dosage form for Campral is a mg tablet (Campral 333mg) for oral administration, and each tablet contains 333 mg acamprosate. It is usually a delayed-release tablet.

Adults typically take two tablets by mouth three times daily. If you have kidney problems, your dosage may be altered.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Teva Pharmaceuticals is the company that manufactures Campral.

There are several lower-cost generic versions available of Campral.

If you wish to discontinue taking acamprosate, speak with your doctor first. Acamprosate is not known to induce withdrawal symptoms if you abruptly discontinue therapy; therefore, your doctor does not need to reduce your dose over time. They can, however, discuss additional treatment choices for alcohol use disorder if you believe acamprosate isn't working for you or is creating bothersome side effects.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.