Naltrexone is a prescription medication administered orally or through injection. The FDA-approved treatment addresses alcohol use disorder and opioid use disorder. Naltrexone aids in preventing relapse in people who become dependent on alcohol or drugs and stop using them. It keeps patients from craving and having the desire to use the substance of abuse.
At Beat Addiction Recovery, we know that those in recovery require time and support to overcome the harsh effects of addiction. We offer this support with naltrexone therapy. If you’re asking, “Is naltrexone addictive?” The answer is no. Naltrexone decreases the urge to use substances, enabling patients to focus on reaching their recovery goals. This gives them the best chance at lifelong sobriety.
How Effective is Naltrexone Against Alcoholism and Drug Addiction?
Naltrexone blocks the effects of drugs or alcohol in the brain. The medication competes with drugs for the opiate receptors in the brain, blocking the feelings of pleasure caused by the substances. Overcoming a drug or alcohol addiction need a highly individualized treatment plan and ongoing care. Even though naltrexone is a highly effective treatment, it’s most successful when used together with other programs such as therapy and mental health treatment if a patient has a dual diagnosis.
Naltrexone Addiction Dosages and Abuse
Naltrexone comes in a 380-mg injectable liquid solution and 50-mg tablets. If a person has an alcohol use disorder, they can begin with a dose of 25mg daily then move to 5mg if they don’t have withdrawal symptoms. For those with an opioid addiction, the dose can be increased to 100 mg. It's essential to continue naltrexone therapy under the direct supervision of a qualified medical expert who can reduce, adjust, or discontinue naltrexone dosages as necessary. Addiction treatment specialists recommend taking naltrexone for about 12 months. This will allow a person’s brain to heal properly after detoxing.
Unlike other opioid addiction or alcohol addiction treatments, naltrexone doesn’t come with a risk of abuse or addiction. Naltrexone will not get someone high, and people with a substance use disorder don't usually abuse naltrexone to feel high.
Side Effects of Naltrexone
Naltrexone is generally well-tolerated. That said, it can have side effects like other prescription medications. People on naltrexone therapy may experience:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Muscle or joint aches
- Restlessness
- Lightheadedness
- Fatigue
Risk of Heroin or Alcohol Overdose
Naltrexone lowers an individual’s tolerance to alcohol or drugs. This increases their risk of a serious or even fatal overdose if they drink alcohol or use opioids after completing naltrexone treatment or missing a dose of the medication.
Top-Rated Medication-Assisted Treatment Program
If you're looking for a medication-assisted program, we have the perfect solution for you. At Beat Addiction Recovery, we’re a MAT program that provides naltrexone prescribed by a treating physician. If you're wondering, “Is naltrexone addictive?” the medication isn't. Instead, it helps a person overcome their addiction and achieve long-term sobriety when combined with our other programs. Contact us to learn more about our medication-assisted treatment program for alcohol and drug addiction for your practice: 888-913-1099.