Naltrexone is a prescription medication that’s specifically designed to treat people who have opioid addiction or have a physical dependence on alcohol.
The drug works by blocking the euphoric effects of opioid narcotics or alcohol on the brain. It also helps to reduce cravings and improve abstinence rates.
While naltrexone is not addictive and does not provide a high, there are other risks involved in using this medication.
How Naltrexone Works
When opioid abuse occurs, the opioid receptors in the brain trigger the release of endorphins. These neurotransmitters boost feelings of pleasure and well-being.
Once the euphoric high wears off, people may feel compelled to continue using the drug. Over time, repeated use of opioids can lead to addiction.
Naltrexone works by blocking and binding opioid receptors in the brain, which helps reduce cravings and prevents people from feeling the same pleasurable effects if they continue using opiates.
Is Naltrexone Abuse Possible?
Due to the way naltrexone interacts with receptors in the brain, there is no risk of abuse from taking it. Using naltrexone will, however, lower a person’s tolerance to opioids.
As a result, if a person relapses while on naltrexone therapy, they will likely be far more sensitive to the effects of the opiate effects of the drug.
Some people may use naltrexone to purposefully lower their opioid or alcohol tolerance level so they can get intoxicated easier.
What Are The Risks Of Misusing Naltrexone?
Misusing naltrexone to decrease tolerance and increase your high is dangerous, as it could quickly lead to an overdose.
The signs of an opioid overdose include confusion, slurred speech, blue lips and fingernails, vomiting, and unresponsiveness.
If a person is exhibiting any of these symptoms, especially if they have taken a large dose of opioids, call 911 immediately.
Naloxone, sold under the brand name Narcan, is an opioid antagonist drug that may be administered to reverse the effects of opioid overdose.
Side Effects Of Using Naltrexone
The use of naltrexone can produce a range of side effects. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional in the event that naltrexone’s side effects become intolerable.
Common side effects include:
- trouble sleeping
- stomach pain
- headaches
- anxiety and nervousness
- joint pain
- constipation
- muscle pain
- tiredness
Some people may experience an allergic reaction to taking doses of naltrexone. Adverse reactions may appear at the injection site or in the form of an allergic reaction.
One of the most serious side effects of naltrexone use is liver damage, which can lead to diminished liver function.
Symptoms of liver disease include yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice), dark urine, and abdominal pain.
To avoid potentially dangerous side effects, people are advised to not engage in analgesic drug use or drink alcohol while taking naltrexone.
Treatment Programs For Drug And Alcohol Addiction
Before a person begins naltrexone treatment, they will typically have to undergo a full detoxification and opioid use disorder treatment regimen.
There are a number of evidence-based treatments that may be available at a rehab center for people battling substance abuse.
Addiction treatment options may include:
- support groups for people with alcohol dependence
- medication-assisted treatment (MAT) using Vivitrol
- buprenorphine or methadone maintenance for opioid withdrawal symptoms
- dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring disorders
- mental health services
- group therapy for people with opioid dependence
- medical detox
- cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- aftercare services
Find Substance Use Disorder Treatment Today
Call our helpline today for more information about opioid drug abuse and alcohol use disorder.
Our team can assist you in getting a referral for medical advice, or in finding a treatment facility that will put you on the path to sobriety.
Published on October 5, 2022
Free Rehab Centers aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.
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- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/naltrexone - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/opioid-overdose - National Institute of Health (NIH)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26768736/ - U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medication-assisted-treatment-mat