Naltrexone (Oral Prescription Only)

Naltrexone is used to help narcotic addicts who have stopped taking narcotics to stay drug-free. It is also used to help alcoholics stay alcohol-free. The medicine is not a cure for addiction. Other treatment options may be recommended.

Naltrexone is a medicine that reduces the desire for alcohol after drinking has stopped. Naltrexone may help some patients remain sober for a long period of time. Naltrexone is not a complete cure for alcoholism.

Naltrexone will cause withdrawal symptoms in people who are physically dependent on narcotics. Therefore, Naltrexone treatment is started after people are no longer dependent on narcotics. The length of time this takes may depend on which narcotic, the amount, and how long the narcotic was taken. Before you start taking this medicine, be sure to tell your doctor if you think you are still having withdrawal symptoms.

Because Naltrexone blocks the brain areas where narcotics and alcohol work, patients should be careful not to take any narcotics, such as codeine, morphine or heroin, while taking Naltrexone. You must stop taking all narcotics 7 to 10 days before you start taking Naltrexone. If you don’t, you could get withdrawal symptoms. Women shouldn’t take Naltrexone if they are pregnant.