Q: I’m having a really hard time fighting with alcoholism. I suffer from anxiety and a nip or two, maybe more, calm my nerves some during the day when I have to work. Some of my friends have told me that Campral might be my answer. Can you provide me with any information so I can make a decision if it will be right for me?
A: Acamprosate (campral) works by helping restore the brain’s chemical balance of an alcoholic who has recently stopped drinking. The medication is also combined with counseling and behavioral modifications. To begin with, if you continue to drink or if you may have issues with other addictive substances, it is not likely to be effective. If, on the other hand, you have undergone detoxification or have attended AA meetings successfully, it may be helpful in balancing things and keeping you from drinking. Other than Campral, there are other medications such as naltrexone that may be used to help achieve alcohol abstinence. You might choose to speak with your physician regarding this alternative.
Campral will not prevent alcohol withdrawal and it should not be taken if you have severe kidney disease. Your prescribing physician should be informed if you relapse and have a drink or several drinks once you are on the medication. Campral should be taken exactly as prescribed – no more and no less — and for the time period indicated. The pills should not be crushed or chewed but should be swallowed whole, since they have a special coating that reduces side effects when it hits the stomach. Side effects may include depression, pain or weakness, anxiety, sweating, insomnia, paresthesias (numbness or a tingling sensation), and more.
While you don’t indicate your age, Campral’s normal dose for adults and geriatric patients is 666 mg three times a day. Geriatric patients are more likely to suffer from a decrease in renal function than are younger individuals. And, if refills have been ordered, there should not be a lapse in time between prescriptions. On another note, my guess is that your primary care physician is aware of your anxiety issues. If not, he or she should be advised prior to you beginning the medication so a determination can be made if Campral is right for you.
Because we all respond differently to almost any drug, you should be well-informed on the symptoms of overdose and potential side effects which may include nausea, a metallic taste in the mouth, incoherent speech, diarrhea/constipation, excessive fatigue, abdominal pain, weight loss, and more. Some of the side effects may dissipate once your body adjusts to the dose you are placed on but a continuation of the drinking habit will not improve with time. You might want to play it safe and keep your doctor informed.
Change isn’t easy and alcoholism is a disease that is extremely difficult to deal with. I commend you on taking an upper hand to get your habit under control. I might also suggest AA if you haven’t attended meetings yet. There are many, many individuals in the same boat as you and a support group may be extremely effective. Find alternatives to drinking by occupying the time spent with other healthier habits. Avoid triggers. If the people you work with stop after work for a drink or two, excuse yourself and head for home, being sure to stay active. Walk the dog, read the newspaper, or catch up on the news on your television instead. If you have a supportive family, tell them of your new goals and plans and ask for their support at what may be difficult times. You’ll be glad you did.
