ACAMPROSATE CALCIUM (a-cam-pro'sate)
Campral Classifications: substance abuse deterrent; Therapeutic:substance abuse inhibitor Pregnancy Category: C
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Availability
333 mg delayed-release tablets
Action
May interact with CNS glutamate and GABA neurotransmitter systems and help restore normal balance between neuronal excitation
and inhibition. Acamprosate is a neurotransmitter analog.
Therapeutic Effect
Reduces craving for alcohol intake due to chronic use, but does not cause alcohol aversion or a disulfiram-like reaction
as a result of ethanol ingestion.
Uses
Maintenance of abstinence from alcohol in patients with alcoholism.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to acamprosate calcium or any of its components; suicidal ideation; pregnancy (category C). Safety and
efficacy in patients with severe renal impairment (Clcr <30 mL/min) have not been established.
Cautious Use
Moderate renal impairment; depression; lactation. Safety and efficacy of acamprosate have not been established in adolescents
or children <18 y.
Route & Dosage
Maintenance of Alcohol Abstinence Adult: PO 666 mg t.i.d.
Renal Impairment Adult: PO Clcr 3050 mL/min: 333 mg t.i.d.; <30 mL/min: do not use
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Administration
Oral
- Ensure that the drug is not chewed or crushed. It must be swallowed whole.
- Store at 15°30° C (59°86° F).
Adverse Effects (≥1%)
Body as a Whole: Flu syndrome, chills.
CNS: Depression, anxiety,
insomnia, asthenia, dizziness, paresthesia, headache, somnolence, decreased libido, amnesia, abnormal
thinking, tremor.
CV: Palpitation, syncope.
GI: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, flatulence, dry mouth, abdominal pain, dyspepsia,
constipation, increased appetite.
Metabolic: Peripheral edema, weight gain.
Musculoskeletal: Musculoskeletal pain.
Respiratory: Rhinitis, cough, dyspnea, pharyngitis,
bronchitis.
Skin: Pruritus, diaphoresis, rash.
Special Senses: Abnormal vision, taste perversion.
Urogenital: Impotence.
Interactions
Drug: None reported.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: 11% bioavailability.
Metabolism: Not metabolized.
Elimination: Renal.
Half-Life: 2033 h.
Nursing Implications
Assessment & Drug Effects
- Monitor for S&S depression or suicidal thinking.
- Monitor for dizziness or impaired judgment, thinking, and motor skills; take appropriate protective measures.
Patient & Family Education
- Report any alcohol consumption while taking acamprosate.
- Report promptly any of the following: unusual anxiousness or nervousness; depression or suicidal thoughts; burning or tingling
sensations in arms, legs, hands, or feet; chest pains or palpitations; difficulty urinating.
- Do not drive or engage in other hazardous activities until reaction to the drug is known.