• Naltrexone is a non-narcotic drug; it has been found effective for people who want to get rid of alcohol and opiate addiction.
• The drug helps overcome addiction by reducing the desire to drink alcohol and take opioids.
• It does not produce narcotic-like effects and does not cause drug dependence.
• Clinical trials have found that Naltrexone is highly effective at curbing the addiction to opioids and alcohol.

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist. It acts by blocking the effects of narcotics, including opiates, especially the “high” feeling that you get after using them. The drug also may block the “high” feeling that may get after you drink alcohol. Naltrexone does not produce narcotic-like effects or does not cause any addiction or dependence. The drug stops your urges or craving to take opioids or drink alcohol. However, the exact mechanism of action is unknown.

• It is important to take Naltrexone exactly as advised by your prescribing doctor so you can use it safely and effectively.
• For alcohol addiction, your doctor may advise Naltrexone 50 mg once a day, which should be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time every day, without skipping or missing the dose.
• For opioid or narcotic addiction, your doctor may advise Naltrexone 25 mg as the first dose, then another 25 mg after one hour, and then 50 mg once a day for two to four weeks.
• The drug may be taken with food, milk, or antacids if you experience an upset stomach.
• A missed dose of Naltrexone should be taken as soon as you remember. However, if the next dose is scheduled, skip the missed dose. Avoid taking two doses to compensate for the missed dose.

• Before using Naltrexone, tell your doctor if you have a history of any drug allergies, including naltrexone or any other opioid antagonists.
• Tell your medical professional if you have any medical conditions before using this drug addiction medication, such as liver or kidney disease, psychological disorders, etc.
• There is no adequate research of the drug in women for determining risk in fetus and infants so check with your doctor if you want to use Naltrexone during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Using Naltrexone with certain medicines is not recommended. So, tell your doctor about the medication you have been using to prevent unwanted drug interactions.
• Some medicines and foods should not be used along with Naltrexone. Avoid using alcohol or tobacco during the course of treatment.

• Mild abdominal pain
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Trouble sleeping
• Headache
• Joint/muscle pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Unusual fatigue

There are a few common side effects of Naltrexone. Immediately seek medical attention if these side effects persist to aggravate. Visit your nearest ER if you take the drug for the first time and have allergic reactions such as skin rashes and swelling of the face or throat.

• People using Naltrexone should carry a medical ID stating that you have been taking it for your opioid or alcohol addiction so that your doctors can give you appropriate treatment.
• Naltrexone may make you dizzy, sleepy, or drowsy. Avoid marijuana, alcohol, or tobacco during treatment, as they can make you more dizzy.
• Since dizziness is the most common side effect of this drug, avoid driving, using machinery, or doing things that need your alertness.
• After stopping your treatment with Naltrexone, you may be more sensitive to opioids. And eventually, you may experience serious side effects from opioids.
• Before undergoing any surgery or medical treatment, tell your doctor, surgeon, or dentist that you have been taking Naltrexone for your addiction problem.