Naltrexone For Treating Addiction

Updated on June 9, 2020

Drug addiction is treated in various ways, among which is the prescription of medicines. Medicines are typically used to reduce the withdrawal symptoms that often make people reach out to drugs again during the recovery process. 

Prescription for Naltrexone or Nalmefene is common medications used in the treatment of drug addiction. However, in this article, we will be focusing on the use of Naltrexone. 

 Naltrexone is among the common medication used in the treatment of opioid addictions. The medication blocks the adverse effects of the drug, thereby reducing the extreme cravings caused by the same. 

However, this medication is used along with a broad recovery treatment program that includes treatment methods like the Sinclair method, support groups, and counselling, which is recommended by the medical professionals. 

If the patient is dependent on opioids, then Naltrexone works to trigger the withdrawal symptoms. It is imperative to refrain from consuming opioid between 7 to 10 days prior to taking Naltrexone in order to mitigate the risk of withdrawal. However, the time period will differ in individuals based on the degree of addiction and other associated details. 

The recovery treatment from opioid takes a lot of time and patience. However, with the right medication and comprehensive treatment program, the patient will be able to deal with situations in a more efficient manner. 

The Effect of Naltrexone

Naltrexone effect is different from other medications that are used in the addiction treatment of opioid. Methadone and buprenorphine work to reduce the craving. 

Naltrexone, on the other hand, helps in the core desire of taking opioid. Eliminating the opioid receptors, the medication ensures that there is no sedative and euphoric side effects that typically comes with taking opioid. 

Naltrexone in Addiction Treatment 

Opioid treatment will give you a rush or high that will offer you a feeling of relief or contentment. The use of Naltrexone will block these feelings. With consistent use combine with proper treatment, the person will gain their state of the mind that is free from drugs, allowing him or her to lead a healthier lifestyle. 

While Naltrexone typically used for addiction treatment, it may not have any effect on drug cravings. Therefore this medication is ideally used by people who have successfully passed the withdrawal stage and are encouraged to go to the recovery process. If you are constantly craving for opioids, you need to immediately contact your medical treatment. 

After taking Naltrexone, you may be sensitivity to opioids in lower quantity. Make sure you avoid taking any drugs during the medication-assisted treatment. If you fall back on any drug again, it will make things even more complicated. Naltrexone can be consumed in the form of a tablet, implant device and injectable. 

The medication is commonly used in the form of a tablet; however, injectable as well as implant device is also becoming highly popular. The use of Naltrexone does come with its share of side effect that you must be aware of. Headache, mild abdominal pain, nausea, joint or muscle pain, etc. are some of the common side effects. This is why it is important to use this medicine along with proper treatment program.

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.