Acamprosate calcium delayed-release tablet

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually three times a day. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew the tablets.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.If you begin drinking alcohol again, continue taking this medication but inform your doctor.

Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gas, stomach pain, loss of appetite, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, fatigue, weight gain/loss, muscle/joint pain, change in sexual desire or decreased sexual ability may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (including severe depression, thoughts of suicide), fainting, fast or pounding heartbeat, vision or hearing changes, increased thirst.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: change in the amount of urine, seizures, persistent stomach pain, black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before taking acamprosate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: severe kidney disease.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: other kidney disease.This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Remember that drinking large amounts of alcohol during pregnancy can cause long-lasting problems in your baby, such as birth defects, growth retardation, and learning disabilities. This set of problems is often called fetal alcohol syndrome.It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.