Deterrent Action of Acamprosate: A Case Report

Among the three pharmacological agents available for alcohol de-addiction, acamprosate and naltrexone are considered anti-craving agents. Among these two, acamprosate is better tolerated, has low abuse potential, and is safe in overdose. But the mechanism of action of acamprosate still remains unclear.

This case report gives a description of a 46-year-old male patient diagnosed with alcohol dependence syndrome with prior admissions and failed treatments with naltrexone and baclofen. He developed skin reaction after relapsing with alcohol use while receiving acamprosate therapy. The severity of the adverse effects varied with the amount of alcohol consumed by the patient. This suggests the possibility of deterrent-like action of acamprosate in our patient. The symptoms reduced after abstinence from alcohol and the patient was continued on acamprosate and relapse prevention therapy (RPT).

Clinicians should consider the possible deterrent effect of acamprosate and manage such patients accordingly.