Acamprosate ; Treatment of alcohol dependance

Acamprosate is a medication with a specific purpose in the field of addiction medicine. It is primarily indicated for use as a therapeutic agent to help maintain abstinence in individuals who are alcohol-dependent. This medication is not a standalone solution but is most effective when combined with counselling and psychosocial support, provided by specialist services.

In addition to its licensed use in maintaining abstinence, Acamprosate is sometimes used off-label to assist patients who have not completely ceased drinking but wish to reduce their alcohol consumption. This off-label use aims to mitigate the risk of a lapse evolving into a full relapse.

The guidance provided by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), specifically NICE Guideline 115 for Alcohol-use disorders, recommends the utilization of Acamprosate in conjunction with individual psychological interventions. This recommendation applies after successful withdrawal from moderate to severe alcohol dependence.

General Practitioners (GPs) play a crucial role in the prescription of Acamprosate, but there are specific criteria that must be met for them to initiate this treatment. GPs should consider prescribing Acamprosate when a patient has been identified as alcohol-dependent and has successfully undergone alcohol withdrawal, while actively participating in an alcohol reduction program. Additionally, GPs...