What is naltrexone?

Naltrexone is a non-addictive medication that blocks opiate receptors in the brain. In this way, it prevents the drug “high” normally produced by alcohol or narcotics, and it also reduces cravings. When combined with relapse-prevention therapies, naltrexone can dramatically reduce the chance of a relapse to drinking or drug use.

Is naltrexone safe to use?

Naltrexone is an FDA-approved drug that has been on the market since 1985 for the treatment of opiate addiction and since 1994 for the treatment of alcoholism. Naltrexone has also been approved in over a dozen countries and is prescribed to thousands of people each year through¬out the world. Studies show that in doses typically used to treat addiction, naltrexone is very safe.

Should I take naltrexone?

If you are having trouble controlling your drinking or drug use, then you should consider taking naltrexone. Naltrexone is not a crutch or a cure-all, but it makes it much easier for people to stop using alcohol and narcotics.

If I take naltrexone, do I need additional treatment?

For optimal results, naltrexone should be used in combination with relapse-prevention therapies. Each individual, however, can choose the plan that works best for him or her.

What are the side effects of naltrexone?

Mild nausea, irritability, fatigue, and dizziness may occur initially. Reducing the amount of naltrexone, taking it with food, or taking it before bed can diminish these complaints.

What does it feel like to be on naltrexone?

Patients generally report that they are largely unaware of being on medication. Naltrexone usually has no mood-altering effects; most patients feel neither "high" nor "down." While it does seem to reduce alcohol and drug cravings, it does not interfere with the experience of other types of pleasures in most patients.

How long should I take naltrexone?

Most people should have a minimum of 6 months of complete sobriety before they stop taking the medication. Some people stay on naltrexone for a year or more and continue to use it whenever they experience craving.

Will I become addicted to naltrexone?

Naltrexone does not have addictive properties. Therefore, it is perfectly safe to take naltrexone for an extended period of time without worrying about withdrawal symptoms.

Can I take naltrexone with other medications?

Naltrexone has been safely used in combination with many medications including aspirin, Tylenol®, blood pressure medications, anti-depressants such as Prozac®, mood stabilizers such as lithium, and anxiety-reducing medications such as Xanax® or Valium®.

Naltrexone should not be taken with opiate-containing painkillers such as codeine, Percocet®, or Demerol®, because it will block the effects of these medications. If you are addicted to opiates or have been taking methadone, you must go through a week-long detoxification process before beginning naltrexone.

What if I drink while on naltrexone?

You will feel neither “high” nor nauseous, however, you will experience the other effects of alcohol including impaired motor function. Naltrexone may help you avoid drinking to excess if you slip and have one drink.

What happens if I abuse drugs while taking naltrexone?

Patients who take small doses of opiates will not experience a drug “high.” However, large doses of narcotics will override naltrexone’s blocking effect. You must then go through the week-long detoxification process again before resuming naltrexone use.

Can I take naltrexone if I am pregnant or nursing?

The possible risks associated with naltrexone and pregnancy or breastfeeding remain unknown. Like all medications used during pregnancy, one must weigh the risks and benefits. The damaging effects of alcohol on an unborn child are well-documented however, so above all, do not drink during pregnancy.


Call Assisted Recovery's 24-Hour Help Line (314) 645-6840 for a free, confidential consultation.