Acamprosate treats alcohol dependence, helping individuals maintain abstinence after stopping drinking. It restores the balance of brain chemicals disrupted by chronic alcohol use, reducing cravings. This medication is typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling or other support.
Acamprosate and Weight Changes
Clinical studies indicate acamprosate is often weight-neutral, meaning it typically causes neither weight gain nor significant weight loss. Some individuals have even reported minor weight loss. The medication modulates brain neurotransmitter systems, like glutamate and GABA, to normalize brain activity after alcohol cessation.
While some individuals report weight gain, this is not a universal side effect. Observed weight changes are often minor and may include increased appetite. It remains unclear if this increased appetite is a direct medication effect or a result of stopping alcohol, which naturally impacts appetite and metabolism.
Acamprosate does not typically influence metabolism to promote fat storage, nor does it directly affect blood alcohol levels or alcohol breakdown. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, which rarely necessitate stopping treatment.
Factors Influencing Weight During Recovery
Weight changes during alcohol recovery are common and can stem from various factors independent of medication. Alcohol itself contains a significant number of “empty calories” without nutritional value, and heavy drinkers may consume hundreds or even a thousand extra calories daily from alcohol alone. When alcohol consumption ceases, this substantial calorie source is removed, which can initially lead to weight loss for some individuals.
However, many people experience weight gain after quitting alcohol due to shifts in dietary habits. Individuals may substitute alcohol with calorie-dense foods, particularly those high in sugar or fat, as a coping mechanism or to satisfy cravings. Alcohol can suppress appetite, so sobriety often brings about a return of normal hunger and improved nutrient absorption as the gastrointestinal tract heals.
Metabolic adjustments also play a role; chronic alcohol use can slow metabolism, and the body’s metabolism begins to normalize and improve after cessation. This metabolic shift, combined with improved nutrition and potentially increased physical activity as energy levels rise, contributes to changes in body composition. Initial fluid retention can also contribute to temporary weight gain as the body adjusts to sobriety.