Key takeaway
Campral is acamprosate for alcohol use disorder after detox. Diarrhea and stomach upset are the usual early complaints; kidney function matters for dosing decisions. This is not a DIY taper drug. Call or text (800) 653-9376 to compare AUD medications.
Last updated: Wed Oct 07 2026 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Campral is a brand name for acamprosate, an FDA-approved medication for alcohol use disorder used after detox for many people who are working toward abstinence. Side-effect searches spike because diarrhea shows up early and because Campral is easy to confuse with naltrexone or disulfiram.
This page is education, not a dosing guide. Call 911 for medical emergencies. Call or text 988 for a crisis.
Common side effects
People most often report:
- Diarrhea and other stomach upset
- Nausea, gas, or appetite changes
- Headache
- Insomnia or anxiety
- Itching or weakness in some cases
Gut symptoms are the usual reason people ask about stopping in week one. Ask the prescriber about timing with meals and whether a temporary supportive plan is appropriate - do not invent a half-dose schedule from a forum.
Important precautions
- Kidney function: dosing can change with renal impairment; some patients are not candidates
- Not a detox drug: Campral does not manage acute alcohol withdrawal seizures or DTs
- Pregnancy and other meds: review with the clinician who knows your full list
- Mental health: mood changes should be reported rather than toughened out alone
For mechanism and candidacy, see acamprosate for alcohol use disorder. Compare tolerability with naltrexone side effects if you are choosing between AUD medicines.
How Campral fits a real plan
Acamprosate works best when paired with counseling or structured recovery support after withdrawal is stable. It will not punish drinking the way disulfiram can, and it will not block opioids the way naltrexone does.
Call or text (800) 653-9376 or use this form if you need help finding a prescriber who offers AUD medications:
Calling is free; the referral service is paid for by treatment providers, and we check your benefits before you commit.
You can also search findtreatment.gov for alcohol use treatment near you.
Additional Resources
Sources cited on this page:
- FDA drug labeling (acamprosate)
- NIAAA - Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder
- SAMHSA FindTreatment.gov
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Common Questions
What are common Campral side effects?
Diarrhea is the best-known effect. Nausea, gas, headache, insomnia, and anxiety also appear for some people. Many gut effects ease after the first weeks if you stay on the prescribed schedule.
Is Campral hard on the liver or kidneys?
Acamprosate is often considered when liver concerns limit other choices, but kidney impairment can require dose changes or avoidance. Clinicians review renal function before prescribing.
Does Campral stop alcohol withdrawal?
No. Campral is a maintenance medicine after acute withdrawal is addressed. It is not a detox protocol and will not treat seizures or delirium tremens.
How is Campral different from naltrexone or Antabuse?
Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist; disulfiram (Antabuse) creates an aversive reaction to alcohol; acamprosate modulates glutamate systems involved in post-acute craving and protracted withdrawal for many patients. A clinician matches the drug to goals and medical history.
What if side effects make me want to stop?
Call the prescribing clinician before you quit. Abrupt stops without a relapse plan can leave you unprotected during a high-risk window.