ACAMPROSATE AS AN AID IN THE TREATMENT OF ALCOHOLISM

Acamprosate is a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogue for which evi dence is accumulating of a clinically useful benefit when used as an a djunct for conventional treatments to prevent relapse in alcohol depen dence. This paper reviews published randomized controlled studies invo lving 1304 patients. To date no abstinence syndrome associated with ac amprosate has been identified nor serious adverse effects. It is not e ffective in all patients, and the characteristics of the individuals m ost likely to respond and the treatment setting and modalities in whic h it is likely to be most helpful, have yet to be specified.