Recent Research Highlights on Acamprosate for Alcohol Use Disorder

By Sacred Leaves Private Limted Medical News | July 2025

1. Safety Confirmed in Patients with Alcohol-Related Liver Disease

A recent prospective study has shown that acamprosate remains safe and well-tolerated in individuals with moderate to severe alcohol-associated liver disease. Patients experienced no significant adverse liver events or intolerance after initiation of the medication JAMA Network+15ScienceDirect+15Mayo Clinic Proceedings+15ClinicalTrials.gov+2Wikipedia+2PMC+2.

2. Genetic Variant Associated with Treatment Response

New preliminary data identify variants in the IL17RB gene that appear to influence patient response to acamprosate. This pharmacogenomic insight suggests that genetic testing may help personalize treatment plans and improve outcomes ScienceDirect.

3. Meta-Analyses Confirm Effectiveness in Relapse Prevention

Clinical reviews and a recent meta-analysis have reaffirmed acamprosate’s role in supporting long-term abstinence from alcohol. A two-year follow-up study reinforced its reliability in sustaining abstinence with minimal side effects ClinicalTrials.gov+15JAMA Network+15ScienceDirect+15. Acamprosate is also listed as an Essential Medicine by WHO, emphasizing global endorsement .

4. Acamprosate vs. Naltrexone: Comparative Insights

Several recent clinical trials compare acamprosate and naltrexone, both of which are first-line anticraving agents. Results indicate that while naltrexone may demonstrate slightly higher efficacy in relapse prevention, acamprosate remains a strong, safe alternative, particularly for patients with liver comorbidities PMC+11Lippincott Journals+11Auctores+11.

Clinical Implications for Practitioners

• Ideal Candidates: Patients with alcohol use disorders, including those with hepatic impairment.
  
  
• Dosing Protocols: Common regimen is 666 mg three times daily, adjusted to patient-specific needs medicine.osu.edu.
  
  
• Monitoring: Watch for mild adverse effects including headaches or gastrointestinal discomfort. Avoid in pregnancy due to inadequate safety data .
  
  
• Future Direction: Genetic screening (IL17RB variants) could tailor therapy and improve response rates.
  
  

Summary

Acamprosate continues to prove its clinical value:

• Proven safety in liver disease patients
  
  
• Strong record in maintaining abstinence
  
  
• Emerging genetic markers allow personalized treatment
  
  
• Viable alongside or in place of naltrexone, especially in hepatic comorbidities
  
  

Acamprosate remains an essential, well-established tool in the treatment of alcohol dependence and relapse prevention.