How is Acamprosate Used in Alcohol Addiction Treatment?

Acamprosate is a medication that is sometimes offered as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for people who have an alcohol use disorder. Not all people who have an alcohol use disorder are prescribed medication to support their recovery, but some may be depending on their unique needs. While this medication is not formulated to treat withdrawal symptoms associated with discontinuation of alcohol use, it can reduce cravings for alcohol, which helps people refrain from drinking. 

Our Alcohol Detox facility is known for its positive and welcoming environment and individualized treatment plans. We tailor treatment to suit each client’s needs. For instance, not all clients will require medication-assisted treatment or dual diagnosis treatment.

Today, millions of people are addicted to alcohol. Though sold seemingly everywhere, from convenience stores to restaurants, alcohol is highly addictive. If you have developed an alcohol addiction, you need help. Our rehab center in California can help you overcome your alcohol dependence and stay off alcohol for good. Medications such as Acamprosate may help.

Introduction to Acamprosate and Its Role in Treating Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol use disorder is a chronic condition. According to medical evidence, more than 85% of people who are addicted to alcohol will relapse at least once after attempting to quit drinking. As a result, medical researchers search for ways to support people in their goal to stop drinking. Using medication has been, at times, a controversial option. Today, however, the medical evidence supports the position that some medications can help people stop drinking alcohol and achieve long-term recovery. 

Acamprosate is a medication that can help people prevent alcohol relapse because it is designed to reduce alcohol cravings. When people experience fewer cravings to drink alcohol, they will find it easier to manage their condition and refrain from using alcohol. Acamprosate does not curtail alcohol withdrawal symptoms, but rehab clinicians may provide other medications that reduce or, ideally, eliminate unpleasant or severe withdrawal symptoms. 

How Acamprosate Works in the Brain

People who are addicted to alcohol and recently stopped drinking are likely to experience powerful compulsions and cravings to drink. Substance use disorders like alcoholism are highly complex conditions. The powerful compulsions and cravings often pave the path to relapse. Acamprosate reduces these compulsions and cravings in the brain, so people feel more in control of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. In short, they find it easier to manage their cravings because they are less severe and occur less frequently as a result of their medication-assisted treatment. 

Benefits of Acamprosate in Recovery from Alcoholism

Medication-assisted treatment is not a cure for alcoholism; it is simply one strategy that people can use to manage their alcohol use disorder effectively. Medication alone does not generally help people manage their alcoholism, but when combined with other evidence-based treatments, it can help people achieve their recovery goals. At Resurgence Behavioral Health, we combine medication-assisted treatment with evidence-based, alternative, and holistic therapeutic modalities for clients who can benefit from these therapeutic approaches. 

At Resurgence Behavioral Health, we offer a complete range of alcohol addiction treatment programs that include alcohol detox, inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, and aftercare. We also offer some specialized treatments like medication-assisted treatment and dual diagnosis treatment. Our licensed clinicians treat all forms of substance abuse and addiction. If you are addicted to alcohol, you can get help at Resurgence Behavioral Health, which is based on leading medically traditional, alternative, and holistic therapies. Together, our treatment approaches target all aspects of substance addiction and recovery. 

Who Should Consider Acamprosate?

At Resurgence Behavioral Health, we evaluate clients’ needs closely. You may be a candidate for Acamprosate if you are struggling to remain sober, have relapsed, or are highly unstable because of your alcohol use disorder. Clinicians will discuss the benefits of this medication with you as well as any potential side effects that may occur. They will also remind you that Acamprosate is not a replacement for other forms of critical therapy that are important to your recovery process. However, with medication-assisted treatment, you may find it easier to focus on your additional therapies because you experience fewer alcohol cravings. 

Common Side Effects of Acamprosate

Side effects may be unfortunate for any medication. Some common side effects associated with Acamprosate include:

• Anxiety.
• Sweating.
• Insomnia.
• Nausea.
• Diarrhea.
• Restlessness.
• Agitation.
• Tingling in extremities.
• Loss of appetite.

Frequently, these symptoms may disappear over time. However, telling your doctor if you experience any side effects is important. Severe side effects, including allergic reactions, require immediate medical attention. Be sure to contact emergency services if you experience suicidal thoughts or any of the listed side effects become severe. 

Potential Drug Interactions with Acamprosate

It’s important to discuss the use of Acamprosate with your doctor. Your doctor must know what other medications or drugs you use before prescribing Acamprosate. Naltrexone is one medication that can interact with Acamprosate, but it’s important to discuss the use of any other medications, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements with your doctor. 

Guidelines for Starting and Stopping Acamprosate

You can rely on your clinician to prescribe Acamprosate to you if you need this medication. Your doctor will choose the ideal dose for you and monitor your recovery progress. It’s important to note that dosage varies between patients. Don’t change your dose unless your clinician advises you to. Generally, adults will be prescribed 1-2 pills taken three times per day. However, this is the general dose; your dose will be specific to you and your individual needs. At Resurgence Behavioral Health, we always tailor treatment for each client. 

The Importance of Comprehensive Alcohol Addiction Treatment Plans

Alcohol use disorder is a serious condition. Alcohol addiction will lead to the deterioration of mental and physical health unless you can manage the condition effectively with abstinence. Once addiction sets in, the condition becomes chronic. At Resurgence Behavioral Health, we offer comprehensive alcohol addiction treatment. Our clinicians can meet clients wherever they are on their recovery journey. Many clients who have an alcohol use disorder can benefit from medication-assisted treatment, but it’s not ideal for everyone. Our clinical staff will evaluate your condition to recommend the best therapeutic approaches for your needs. 

Few people who have a substance use disorder can manage an addiction without help from a qualified rehab center. Substance addiction is complex and involves powerful physical, mental, and behavioral dependencies. Our rehab center can help you manage these dependencies and achieve lasting recovery. 

Get Help with Acamprosate Treatment at Resurgence Behavioral Health

Call Resurgence Behavioral Health at 855-458-0050 or contact us online to begin your enrollment process and recovery journey. We can discuss the benefits of medication-assisted treatment and other therapeutic modalities as they apply to your condition. Our rehab is a safe and welcoming setting where all clients are treated with dignity and respect. Don’t wait to contact Resurgence Behavioral Health to get the help you need to manage your alcohol addiction. The sooner you call, the sooner you can achieve long-term recovery.

Josh Chandler
After growing up in Chicago and North Carolina, Josh chose to get help with substance use disorder and mental health in California because of the state's reputation for top-tier treatment. There, he found the treatment he needed to achieve more than five years of recovery. He's been in the drug and alcohol addiction rehab industry for four years and now serves as the Director of Admissions for Resurgence Behavioral Health. Josh remains passionate about the field because he understands that one phone call can alter the course of a person's life.

Research | Editorial