Campral EC

How does it work?

Acamprosate is used in the treatment of alcohol dependence. Acamprosate has a structure similar to chemical transmitters (neurotransmitters) in the brain e.g. gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). These neurotransmitters act by sending inhibitory messages to the brain, and acamprostate is thought to act by enhancing their inhibitory effects. It is also thought to oppose the action of certain amino-acids that send excitatory messages to the brain. As a result, there is a reduction in the desire or craving to consume alcohol, and hence its use in alcohol dependence. Acamprostate is only effective after weaning, and helps to maintain abstinence from alcohol. Individuals on this treatment must be properly counseled.

What is it used for?

Alcohol dependence

Warning!

This medicine is not used to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

This medicine does not prevent the harmful effects of alcohol use.

This medicine should only be started after the individual has been successfully weaned off the alcohol.

Continued alcohol use whilst on this medicine counteracts (nulls) the beneficial effects of this medicine.

It is important that this treatment is supported with counseling.

Not to be used in

Breastfeeding

Children or adolescents under 18 years of age

Decreased kidney function

People over 65 years of age

Pregnancy

Severe liver failure

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Significant amounts of this medicine may pass into breast milk. It should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Label warnings

Take this medication with or after food.

This medication is to be swallowed whole, not chewed.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Itching (pruritus)

Abdominal pain

Vomiting

Nausea

Skin rashes

Fluctuation in sex drive

Diarrhoea

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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