Naltrexone Side Effects: Duration and Management

Immediately notify your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following serious side effects. One set of adverse effects is that weirdness, that feeling weird, high, intoxicated. Ones—gastrointestinal—where people have nausea, they have diarrhea, they’re queasy all the time. That is probably due to some of the mu effects, as well as the kappa effects of the drug. Stuff, you may be able to affect that by either increasing or decreasing the dose and waiting.

FAQ about Naltrexone for Alcohol Use Disorder (or “Alcoholism”)

Naltrexone is administered only after opioid or alcohol detoxification, to prevent relapse of dependence on these addictive substances. Naltrexone helps reduce dependence and craving for opioids and alcohol by altering the brain’s reinforcing effects on the euphoria and feelings of pleasure these substances produce. Naltrexone, being an opioid antagonist, prevents opioids from producing euphoric effects and does not cause dependency. Starting naltrexone requires a detox period of 7 to 10 days opioid-free, which can be challenging. Naltrexone can affect liver function, particularly at higher doses. While the FDA removed the black-box warning regarding liver toxicity in 2013 due to the absence of reported hepatic failure cases, it is still important to monitor liver enzyme levels regularly.

• It can be used in conjunction with other treatments for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease.
• This medicine may cause some people to become dizzy, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally.
• This comprehensive guide covers the most common and rare side effects of Naltrexone, how to manage them effectively, and when to seek medical advice.
• If reactions to naltrexone occur, inform your doctor immediately so they can create a plan for alternative treatment.

Naltrexone Sick: Why Does it Cause Nausea?

Methadone and Buprenorphine activate opioid receptors to ease withdrawal but can be habit-forming. Antabuse (Disulfiram) creates alcohol sensitivity, causing sickness if alcohol is consumed. Acamprosate helps balance brain chemistry to reduce alcohol cravings. Naltrexone is a non-addictive option, best for those who have already detoxed. Naltrexone, as a prescription drug, is a non-addictive option best for those who have already detoxed.

Real Patient Experiences: Living with Naltrexone Side Effects

Additionally, the effect of naltrexone upon neurophysiology may be potentiated or attenuated by co-administered substances. A substance that potentiates the opioid receptor antagonism provided by naltrexone will likely induce a greater number of side effects at a smaller dose. Oppositely, a substance that attenuates the opioid receptor agonism of naltrexone may reduce some of the side effects (as well as efficacy) of the drug at standard doses. Many people taking naltrexone report fatigue and/or tiredness along with muscle aches – the combination of which may be perceived as weakness. Other than increasing energy levels with a doctor recommended stimulatory adjunct and/or dosage modifications, the weakness may be difficult to overcome. Sometimes the weakness may subside completely after several weeks of naltrexone usage.

Drug Abuse And Dependence

However, like most treatments, it is not free from side effects, and 46% of MAT users report quitting their program due to adverse effects. Below is a list of medications that can interact with naltrexone. This list does not contain all drugs that may interact with naltrexone. If you have questions about drug interactions that may affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Opioids are powerful, addictive drugs that have high risks of misuse and dependence.

• Contact your healthcare provider right away if you experience any of these.
• Extended-release injectable naltrexone is approved for treatment of people with opioid use disorder.
• They can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if needed.
• Regular medical assessments and adjusting dosages as needed are key strategies.

This medication must not be used in people currently taking opiates, drug addiction including methadone. Individuals who use naltrexone may experience severe, and potentially irreversible adverse effects. It is possible that naltrexone may need to be discontinued, which should only be done with the guidance of your healthcare provider.

LDN has also been studied for its anticancer properties, but so far, there is no research that supports the use of LDN in people with cancer. Not all side effects can be eliminated, as everyone’s body chemistry is different. To minimize discomfort and get the most benefit from Naltrexone, follow these tips and work closely with your doctor. Trusted by over 1000+ patients worldwide and partnered with leading stem cell research organizations. Take 10 minutes to complete our onboarding questionnaire that will be used in conjunction with your medical history/tests to determine candidacy. Our treatment protocol is aimed at revolutionizing treatments for degenerative conditions.

Those who are naltrexone side effects pregnant or breastfeeding should also speak with their doctor before starting this medication. Higher doses haven’t demonstrated the same symptom-reducing effects for these conditions. Tara Healthcare LLC is a technology platform which connects patients to licensed providers in the state in which they live. We offer patient-centric, evidence-based treatment to help you on your journey 100% online. Taking Naltrexone without eating can make some people feel sick or uncomfortable. To avoid this, try taking your dose with a meal or snack to help buffer any potential stomach upset.