Indications  

Campral is a prescription medication indicated for patients with alcohol dependence who are already abstinent and want to maintain their abstinence. It should be used alongside a comprehensive management program that includes psychosocial support. 

Classified as a GABA analog, Campral is thought to restore the natural balance of neurotransmitters in the brain that may be imbalanced in individuals with alcohol addiction. However, its exact mechanism of action is not fully understood. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Campral and with each prescription refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or clarifications. 

Campral’s dosage is determined and adjusted based on the individual’s medical condition and response to the treatment. 

Typically, two tablets of Campral are taken three times daily as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. The tablets should be ingested whole and not split, chewed, or crushed. 

For optimal results, take Campral regularly around the same time(s) each day, and strictly follow the prescribed dose and frequency as instructed by your doctor. 

Consult your doctor before discontinuing this medication, even if you think you will not start drinking alcohol again. If you do start drinking, continue taking Campral and notify your doctor promptly. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Campral. Notify your doctor promptly if you experience any persistent or worsened side effects. 

Common Side Effects 

• Diarrhea 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Gas 
• Stomach pain 
• Loss of appetite 
• Headache 
• Drowsiness 
• Dizziness 
• Constipation 
• Fatigue 
• Weight gain/loss 
• Muscle/joint pain 
• Change in sexual desire or decreased sexual ability 

Serious Side Effects 

• Mental/mood changes, such as severe depression or suicidal thoughts 
• Signs of kidney problems, such as a change in urine output 
• Fainting 
• Fast or pounding heartbeat 
• Vision or hearing changes 
• Increased thirst 
• Persistent stomach/abdominal pain 
• Black stools 
• Coffee ground-like vomit 
• Seizures 

Call your doctor and ask for medical assistance if you experience any of the above-listed severe symptoms. 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, Campral may cause a severe allergic reaction. Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the following symptoms of a severe allergic reaction: 

• Rash 
• Face, tongue, or throat itching or swelling 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Campral. If you experience any other effects not listed above, notify your doctor promptly. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Campral, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to acamprosate, other medicines, or any ingredients present in Campral tablets. 

To ensure Campral is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of kidney disease. 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking. Don’t forget to mention if you are taking any antidepressants (‘mood elevators’). Your doctor may need to adjust the dosage of your medications or keep a close eye on any potential side effects. 

Campral’s efficacy may be reduced without prior detox and complete abstinence from alcohol. Furthermore, individuals who misuse drugs or other substances are unlikely to benefit from this medication. 

The use of Campral can impact cognitive abilities, decision-making skills, and coordination. Refrain from driving or operating machinery until you clearly understand how this medication affects you. 

While taking Campral, some individuals may experience suicidal thoughts, requiring regular monitoring by their doctor. Caregivers and family members should also be attentive to changes in mood or symptoms. 

Campral use during pregnancy is only recommended if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. 

The excretion of acamprosate into breast milk is not yet determined. Seek consultation from a medical professional before breastfeeding while taking this medication.