Acamprosate: Uses, indications and precautions when using

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Acamprosate is used to help people who have been addicted to alcohol to avoid drinking again. Acamprosate works by helping the brains of people who have had large amounts of alcohol work properly again and in better health. However, this drug is not involved in preventing the withdrawal symptoms that people may experience when they stop drinking alcohol.

1. Dosage and how to use Acamprosate

As noted above Acamprosate is used with counseling and social support to help people who have stopped drinking large amounts of alcohol (alcoholism) avoid drinking again.
>>> Stages of Alcoholism
Acamprosate is available as a 333 mg oral delayed-release tablet. Usually prescribed to use 3 times a day, in order to easily remember to take the drug, doctors recommend taking the drug in the morning - noon - evening, the drug may not be taken with meals. Do not take more or less than the dose your doctor prescribes for you. Swallow the tablets whole, do not chew, split or crush them.
Dosage in each patient will have a different dose, the amount of medicine you are taking depends on the strength of the drug. The number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medication depend on your medical condition and response to the medication.
Example: For patients with moderate renal dysfunction (CrCl 30 to 50 mL/min)
Initial dose: 333 mg orally 3 times daily Maintenance dose: 333 mg - 666 mg orally 3 times daily The drug should be started as soon as possible after the period of alcohol withdrawal, and after you have abstained from alcohol. Continue taking Acamprosate even in the event of a relapse.
Note Acamprosate is only part of a complete program of treatment that includes counseling support and continued abstinence. Taking medication is only part of it, the key to quitting drinking is largely down to your will.

2. Contraindications and notes before using the drug

Carefully read the instructions on the leaflet that comes with the medicine
Do not take this medicine if you have severe kidney disease, depression or thoughts of suicide Tell your doctor if you are allergic to Acamprosate or any of its ingredients. part of the drug. Accompanied by any health problems you are having including surgery, planning to become pregnant or are pregnant...; any medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. It is better to stop taking the medicine before taking it. Acamprosate has not been shown to be effective if you are still drinking alcohol while taking it.

3. Side effects

3.1. Side effects require medical attention

Symptoms that require immediate medical attention:
Burns, tingling or numbness in the hands, feet, arms or legs Rash Common symptoms:
Extreme feelings of sadness or emptiness Anxiety and fear Depression Severe cold Symptoms of overdose:
Abdominal pain Constipation or diarrhea Confusion, incoherent speech Frequent urination Muscle weakness Nausea Unusual fatigue Nausea or vomiting Weight loss Back pain, joint or muscle pain Paralysis positive or loss of interest in sex If you have any of the above symptoms or signs, call your doctor right away or go to the nearest medical facility right away for a prompt examination and examination. time

3.2. Side effects do not require medical attention

Common symptoms:
Depression, feeling sad, irritable, uninterested, anxiety Loss of appetite, fatigue Difficulty sleeping Difficulty concentrating Memory or thinking problems Less common symptoms:
Fullness gas, excess gas in the stomach and intestines Dizziness Sweating Dry mouth Itchy skin Burning, tingling, numbness, tingling, or burning sensation on the skin. These side effects do not require medical intervention and may go away as your body adapts to taking the medication. If you feel too uncomfortable, consult a medical professional.

4. Preservation of drugs

Store the medicine at room temperature, away from moisture, heat and direct light. It's better to ask your doctor or pharmacist how to properly store the medicine. Keep medicine in a safe place, out of reach of children and pets. Do not use expired, modified or no longer need the medicine. Do not throw the medicine into the toilet or flush it down the sewer line.

5. Handling when forgetting medicine

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is late or near time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take it as usual. Do not double the dose as it will cause many unwanted side effects.

6. Note when taking medicine

In addition to beverages, alcohol is found in many other products. Reading ingredient lists on foods and other products before using them will help you avoid alcohol. Do not use foods that contain alcohol such as sauces and vinegars. You or your family should call your doctor right away if you experience symptoms of depression such as feelings of sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness or helplessness; loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed; lack of energy; difficulty concentrating, irritability; sleep problems; changes in appetite or weight; jitter; or thinking about harming, committing suicide, planning suicide, or attempting to do so. Get regular check-ups while taking the medicine to see if there are problems and side effects that affect your health. This medicine may cause drowsiness, dizziness or confusion in some people. So do not drive or do dangerous activities while taking the drug. Do not use someone else's medicine or let someone else use yours, even if they have the same symptoms as you. Do not smoke while taking the drug.

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References: mayoclinic.org, drugs.com, medlineplus.gov