Campral (acamprosate) is a medication that can help support alcohol abstinence and reduce alcohol cravings in people with alcohol dependence. Here are some key points about Campral:
– It is available as 333mg delayed-release tablets that are taken orally. The usual dosage is two tablets three times per day.
– Campral works by normalizing irregular glutamate transmission in the brain that occurs with chronic alcohol exposure. Glutamate is a neurotransmitter involved in alcohol cravings.
– By reducing glutamate signaling, Campral can lessen alcohol withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, restlessness, and sleep problems.
– It also reduces cravings for alcohol in actively drinking alcoholics trying to maintain abstinence. This may help prevent relapse.
– Campral works best when combined with counseling/support programs. It is not a standalone treatment for alcoholism.
– It does not prevent the intoxicating effects if alcohol is consumed, nor is it addictive.
– Common side effects include diarrhea, dizziness, and headache. Campral is generally well tolerated.
– It takes several days or weeks to start working fully. Campral is meant for long-term daily use for months to years.
In summary, Campral is an oral medication that can help dependent drinkers reduce alcohol cravings and maintain sobriety when combined with psychosocial support and abstinence efforts. By normalizing brain chemistry, it makes it easier to avoid relapse.
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