Acamprosate prescription available online
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Acamprosate prescription online
Chronic Care

Acamprosate (campral) prescription available online

Acamprosate (Campral) helps reduce alcohol cravings for individuals who have already quit drinking. Book an appointment to discuss with a doctor if this medication is right for you. 

Supports alcohol abstinenceReduces relapse riskBalances brain chemistry
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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.

What is acamprosate used for?

Acamprosate helps curb alcohol cravings and is prescribed to individuals who have already quit drinking.³ It is not used to treat withdrawal symptoms or for those still consuming large amounts of alcohol.¹ 

 

Acamprosate is commonly part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), combining medication with behavioral therapy to support recovery.³ 

How does Acamprosate work?

The exact mechanism is unclear, but it is believed to restore neurotransmitter balance (GABA and glutamate) in the brain, reducing cravings and preventing relapse.⁷

Dosage and treatment plan

The typical dose is 666 mg (oral, slow-release tablet) taken three times daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole. Taking them with meals may help with adherence.³

Acamprosate side effects

Common side effects:¹

Diarrhea, gas, nausea
Dry mouth
Anxiety
Insomnia
Sweating
Loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention):¹

Rash
Numbness/tingling in extremities
Increased blood pressure/heart rate³
Chest pain
Suicidal thoughts
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Acamprosate vs. Naltrexone: Which Is Right for You?

Both medications treat alcohol use disorder but function differently: 

  • Acamprosate: Targets brain chemistry to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.⁸ 
  • Naltrexone: Blocks the brain's pleasure response to alcohol, reducing heavy drinking.⁸ 

 

Unlike acamprosate, naltrexone also treats opioid use disorder and is available in tablet or injection form. However, naltrexone has more side effects, including dizziness and fatigue.⁴ 

 

A meta-analysis found that acamprosate is better for maintaining abstinence, while naltrexone is more effective for reducing heavy drinking and cravings.⁵ 

 

Your doctor will help determine the best option based on your needs and health history. 

FAQs about Acamprosate

How long does acamprosate take to work?

Most people notice symptom improvement within a week.³ 

Can I drink alcohol while taking acamprosate?

If you relapse, continue taking it and consult your doctor.³

Does stopping acamprosate cause withdrawal symptoms?

No, acamprosate is not addictive and does not cause withdrawal symptoms.¹⁰

Does acamprosate interact with other medications?

There are no known interactions with antidepressants, anxiety medications, or over-the-counter pain relievers. Always consult your doctor.² 

Is acamprosate safe for individuals with liver problems?

Yes, it is safe for people with liver conditions.⁹ 

What if I miss a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember, but do not double up if it’s close to your next dose.³ 

Can acamprosate affect sleep or mood?

Possible side effects include insomnia, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. Contact your doctor if you experience these.¹ 

Is acamprosate safe for long-term use?

More research is needed on using it beyond one year.¹¹ 

Can acamprosate treat other substance dependencies?

No, the FDA has only approved it for alcohol use disorder.¹ 

3 simple steps to request your Acamprosate prescription today

How pricing works

To get a new or refill on your Acamprosate prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

Membership

$19.99 /month

First month free

+

Visits

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

We accept these insurance plans and many more:

 

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Paying without insurance

Membership

$19.99 /month

First month free

+

Visits

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

Acamprosate prescription resources

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

  1. MedlinePlus. Acamprosate: Drug Information. Accessed on January 10, 2025, at https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604028.html. 
  2. WebMD. Acamprosate Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Warnings & Dosing. Accessed on January 12, 2025, at https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-91488/acamprosate-oral/details. 
  3. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Acamprosate. Accessed on January 14, 2025, at https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Acamprosate/. 
  4. Drugs.com. Acamprosate vs. Naltrexone: How Do They Compare? Accessed on January 10, 2025, at https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/acamprosate-naltrexone-compare-3571175/. 
  5. Maisel, N. C., Blodgett, J. C., Wilbourne, P. L., Humphreys, K., & Finney, J. W. Meta-analysis of Naltrexone and Acamprosate for Treating Alcohol Use Disorders. Accessed on January 12, 2025, at https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.2012.04054.x. 
  6. Mason, B., & Heyser, C. Acamprosate: A Prototypic Neuromodulator in the Treatment of Alcohol Dependence. Accessed on January 14, 2025, at https://doi.org/10.2174/187152710790966641. 
  7. Office of Addiction Services and Supports. Medications for the Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder. Accessed on January 10, 2025, at https://oasas.ny.gov/providers/medications-treatment-alcohol-use-disorder. 
  8. American Family Physician. Naltrexone for Alcoholism. Accessed on January 12, 2025, at https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2000/0315/p1891.html. 
  9. PubMed. Acamprosate. Accessed on January 14, 2025, at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548677/. 
  10. The Recovery Village. Treating Alcoholism with Campral (Acamprosate). Accessed on January 10, 2025, at https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/treatment-program/addiction-medications/acamprosate/#. 
  11. Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health. Long-term Use of Acamprosate Calcium for Alcoholism: A Review of the Clinical Effectiveness, Safety, and Guidelines. Accessed on January 12, 2025, at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK304665/. 

PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.