Acamprosate [calcium acetylhomotaurinate] is a GABAminergic compound that was originated by Meram for the treatment of alcohol dependence. Merck KGaA has licensed the compound. It has been launched in 25 countries. In most European countries it is marketed as Campral®, for instance, Spain. In Spain it is also marketed as Zulex®. In France it is marketed as Aotal®by Merck Lipha (Merck KGaA). It is licensed to Almirall-Prodesfarma in Spain and is marketed as Zulex®. Phase III trials involving 600 patients are underway in the USA. Forest Laboratories have entered into a distribution, marketing, trademark licence and supply agreement with Merck Lipha for rights to acamprosate in the US. Merck Lipha expects to submit an NDA in the US in late 2001/early 2002 for the use of acamprosate in the treatment of alcohol dependence. Acamprosate should be used as part of an organised alcohol withdrawal programme in patients who are motivated to give up alcohol and who have agreed to undergo detoxification. Acamprosate does not appear to have addictive potential itself.[1] It significantly increases the probability of maintained abstinence and does not change ethanol toxicity.[2]Figure. Acamprosate