Naltrexone

Uses of  Naltrexone

Naltrexone treats opioid use disorder. It works by blocking the effect of opioids and reducing cravings to use opioids. It may also be used to treat alcohol use disorder. It belongs to a group of medications called opioid blockers. It is most effective when used in combination with counseling and behavior therapy.

Precaution and Warnings

You should not be treated with  this medicine if you are allergic to it, or if:

• you are currently addicted to opioids;
• you are having withdrawal symptoms from opioid addiction;
• you are using any opioid pain medicine (including fentanyl, Vicodin, OxyContin, and many others);
• you have failed the naloxone challenge test or have a positive urine screen for opioids or
• you have used any opioid medicine such as methadone, buprenorphine, tramadol, and other opioids within 7 to 14 days.

Also, tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• bleeding problems such as hemophilia; or
• liver or kidney disease.
• have alcohol dependence and use opioids.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if this medicine will harm your unborn baby. This medication should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the fetus.

Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. It is not known if this medicine passes into your milk when it is administered by IM injection, and it is not known if it can harm your baby. Naltrexone from tablets passes into breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether you will breastfeed or take this medication. You should not do both.

Dosage

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Sleep disturbances (e.g., insomnia or vivid dreams)
• Rash
• Itching
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss (especially at higher doses)

Serious Side Effects:

• Depression or mood swings
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors (rare but serious)
• Anxiety
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
• Difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis)
• Severe rash or hives
• Anxiety
• Muscle aches
• Sweating
• Runny nose
• Yawning
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea