Acamprosate is a medication used to maintain alcohol abstinence in patients with alcohol dependence. Alcohol use disorder is responsible for a large worldwide burden of morbidity, premature mortality, and economic consequences resulting from accidents, violence, incarceration, decreased productivity, and increased healthcare spending.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 4 references
The mechanism of action of acamprosate for the maintenance of alcohol abstinence has not been established. Chronic alcohol exposure is believed to modify the balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition. Results of studies in animals suggest acamprosate may interact with glutamate and GABA neurotransmitter systems in the CNS, supporting the hypothesis that acamprosate restores the balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition. Evidence shows that acamprosate directly binds and inhibits GABA B receptors and indirectly affects GABA A receptors.
- Primary indication
- Acamprosate is indicated for the maintenance of abstinence from alcohol in patients with alcohol dependence who are abstinent at treatment initiation.Curator reviewed · 2 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- C5H11NO4S · 181.21 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 2009 · United States, 2005
- Also known as
- N-acetyl homotaurine · N-Acetylhomotaurine
- Brand names
Resolves to
AFCGFAGUEYAMAO-UHFFFAOYSA-NSMILESCC(=O)NCCCS(O)(=O)=OWhat you can answer from here — as of September 23, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Acamprosate, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
Create a free account or log in to explore the full data card.
Create Account