Drug Breakdown: ACAMPROSATE
Abstract
In this column, Sharon Rees aims to refresh knowledge and interest in some of the commonly used drugs in a series of posts on X. This month she is talking about
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Day 1: Developed in France in the 1980s for alcohol dependence syndrome, #acamprosate is a modified derivative of the amino acid taurine. It chemically resembles GABA, glutamate, aspartate and glycine, thus may interact with multiple neurological pathways to reduce cravings
Day 2: Oral #acamprosate calcium is licensed age range 18–65. Dose is weight dependent & usually 666 mg x 3 daily. If weight <60 kg, dosing is 666 mg breakfast, then 333 mg midday & evening. Effects start within 7 days. #acamprosate is used when participating in alcohol reduction program & is started as soon as withdrawal period complete. The duration of treatment is at least 6 months & recommended as 1 year. Contraindicated: pregnancy and breastfeeding
Day 3: Large doses needed for #acamprosate as poor oral bioavailability. Absorption in GI tract via paracellular transport is slow. No metabolism; can be used in hepatic impairment/avoid if severe. Excreted renally unchanged/avoid if serum creatinine > 120 micromol/L. t½ ~13 hrs
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