Naltrexone – HCL

Brand Names of Naltrexone: Revia and Vivitrol
Drug Class: Opioid Antagonist



Naltrexone (Revia), is an opioid antagonist drug. Naltrexone is used to reverse and block the effects of endogenous opioids. It prevents the effects through a process called competitive binding. There are minimum effects besides its blocking properties.

Naltrexone has been proven to be a valuable component of opioid abuse treatment when administered in combination with professional, emotional care. It has also been successfully used to manage alcoholism. The mechanism action that occurs with the Naltrexone use in alcoholism is not yet understood. Naltrexone is a non-addictive and a non-mood-altering drug. When using opiates, it virtually eliminates physical cravings and can prevent individuals from experiencing euphoria.

People using any opioids opiates, including methadone, heroin or prescription pain opiates, should not use this medication. Doing so can cause sudden and severe withdrawal symptoms.

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Naltrexone Risks and Side Effects

Some Potential Risks:

  • Naltrexone, should not be taken by patients currently dependent on opioids, including patients maintained on methadone or partial agonists such as buprenorphine. A severe withdrawal syndrome can develop in as little as five minutes after the dose is taken and can last for a couple of days. Immediate medical assistance and monitoring are required because symptoms can include confusion, hallucinations and significant loss of fluids due to intense vomiting and diarrhea.
  • It is potentially very risky for individuals to attempt, on their own, to overcome the Naltrexone blockade by taking large amounts of exogenous opioids. Any attempt by the person to overcome the antagonism may lead to life-threatening intoxication, including respiratory arrest and circulatory collapse or even a fatal overdose. Patients should be acutely aware of the severe consequences of trying to overcome the opioid blockade.
  • Patients who recently treated with Naltrexone are likely to have a reduced tolerance to opioids; They may have a quicker and stronger response to lower doses of opioids than previously used to, just as they would after completing detoxification. If the patient tries using previously tolerated opioid treatments, it could result in an overdose.

Side Effects:

Along with its intended effects, naltrexone may also cause some unwanted symptoms. Although most people tolerate an adequate dose, some effects may occur. If they do happen, please call your prescribing physician or seek medical attention. Before starting this therapy, patients should provide their prescribing physician a comprehensive medical history and a complete list of any medications (including over-the-counter drugs) currently being taken. Narcotics, diarrhea medications, disulfiram, and cough medication can adversely interact with naltrexone.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking naltrexone:
Common Side Effects are:

  • abdominal cramping (mild to moderate)
  • anxiety
  • restlessness
  • trouble sleeping
  • headache
  • muscle pain
  • nausea or vomiting
  • tiredness

Less Common Side Effects:

  • chills
  • constipation
  • cough
  • hoarseness or a sore throat
  • sinus problems
  • runny nose
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • rapid heartbeat
  • unusual thirst
  • loss of appetite
  • sexual issues in males

Discuss the risks and benefits of Naltrexone treatment with your doctor. Consider stopping using this medication and tell your doctor right away if you develop severe symptoms. These symptoms may include persistent nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and yellowing of eyes or skin. These signs could indicate rare liver issues.

Allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, if you notice any symptoms such as a rash, itching or swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), dizziness, or trouble breathing, get emergency medical help right away.

The information above is NOT a complete list of possible risks and side effects and should NOT be used for medical decisions. contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any other symptoms that are not listed above, or would like additional information.


Naltrexone Treatment for Opioid Addiction

Naltrexone is a pure, mu antagonist. Studies show that in highly motivated patients, Naltrexone treatment is a useful post detoxification option and It can be taken by mouth once daily or even every other day. It has minimal side effects and is neither addicting or has the potential for abuse. Therefore, it has become a favorable choice of treatment for those who desire total abstinence.

Opioid addiction can be a very complicated and frustrating condition. Even for those who successfully achieved detoxification, physical cravings can be overwhelming and lead to relapse. For those struggling with cravings, the Naltrexone dramatically reduces the desire to use opioids. The drug is an essential component of an effective opioid treatment. The combination of this medication, sober time, individual mental health assistance the chances to remain opiate-free are much higher.

For people who abuse heroin and opioid medications, an effective medical detoxification is an essential first step. However, choosing the right detox can be a complicated and confusing task. Only after a person is wholly detoxed’ from all opioids can Naltrexone therapy begin. Patients attempting cold turkey’ must have remained off of all opioids for at least 14-28 days, depending on the specific type and usage. Most of these patients can ever start a Vivitrol or Naltrexone therapy because they cannot endure the suffering of a ‘cold turkey’ detox. Withdrawal symptoms can be challenging and stressful, what makes the required time off opiates nearly impossible for so many.

Rapid Detox and Naltrexone

At the Waismann Institute, we recommend oral Naltrexone to most of our patients after performing the rapid drug detox. It helps reduce relapse due to physical cravings and sudden temptations. It also has a potent binding affinity to the opioid receptors what contributes to ensuring continued abstinence. The oral form of this drug, allows our physician to modify dosage and intake based on each patient medical needs, conditions and side effects. After the initial oral intake, patients can choose the monthly injection of Vivitrol.

The primary goal of the Waismann Method of Anesthesia Assisted Rapid Detox is to get patients free from opioid dependence quickly and comfortably. We recognize that day to day reality can be challenging and sometimes filled with opportunities for relapse. Furthermore, we also understand that controlling physical cravings, is just a part of the equation to maintain sobriety. Our two decades of experience with rapid detox and opioid medical treatment has shown us that Naltrexone is a crucial reason for our patients continue success. Patients can begin emotional healing when they feel physically stable. They concentrate on seeking a peace of mind when their body no longer feels distressed. Naltrexone therapy helps patients focus on their psychological healing without the physiological cravings.

The brain chemistry to start healing from the damage opiate dependence has caused, while patients can acquire the psychological tools and strength they need to stay opiate free.

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