in San Francisco
A survey by the American Psychological Association indicates that a significant number of Americans are familiar with someone addicted to opioids. Perhaps this includes someone close to you—a family member or friend—whose struggle with addiction seems insurmountable.
The key to helping a loved one overcome opioid addiction is education. Understanding the available treatment options is the first step in guiding them toward recovery. Naltrexone is one such effective treatment option. This guide will help you understand what naltrexone is, how it works, and its safety profile.
Naltrexone is a medication used to combat both opioid addiction and alcoholism. It functions as an opioid antagonist, blocking the effects of opioids on the brain, which include pain relief and feelings of euphoria. By doing so, naltrexone reduces the desire to use opioids and can also help diminish alcohol cravings for those seeking sobriety.
Naltrexone combats opioid addiction by competing with opioids to bind with the brain’s opioid receptors. By blocking these receptors, naltrexone prevents opioids from producing the pleasurable effects that users seek, effectively curbing cravings.
While the mechanisms by which naltrexone aids in fighting alcohol dependence are less understood, studies suggest it disrupts the brain’s reward circuits that generate the pleasure associated with alcohol consumption.
Naltrexone is available by prescription only and comes under brand names such as Depade, Revia, and Vivitrol, which is an injectable, long-acting version of the drug. Those prescribed the pill form generally take it once daily, while those using Vivitrol receive a monthly injection.
Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage and form of naltrexone for you, depending on your specific needs. The injectable form is particularly beneficial for maintaining compliance with the treatment regimen—a common challenge in addiction recovery.
Naltrexone has proven to be an effective option for many battling opioid addiction or alcoholism, though it is not universally effective. If naltrexone is not suitable, other treatments such as Suboxone, Naloxone, and Sublocade may be recommended. A trusted healthcare provider, like those at SF Suboxone, will help determine the best medication for your situation.
Effective addiction treatment involves more than medication; it should also include counseling, psychosocial therapy, and support groups, along with strategies for managing chronic pain safely.
It is critical to note that naltrexone is not a cure for addiction and does not alleviate withdrawal symptoms or prevent impairment from alcohol if consumed.
A trusted medical provider, like the doctors at San Francisco Suboxone, can help you find the best medication to combat your addiction.
Like any medication for addiction, naltrexone is most effective as part of an overall treatment plan. This plan should include counseling, psychosocial therapy, and support groups. It will also include safer and more effective ways to manage chronic pain.
When discussing naltrexone’s effectiveness, it’s important to note that the drug, in any form, is not a cure for addiction. Furthermore, it does not prevent alcohol impairment if a person drinks while taking naltrexone. Finally, it does not treat opioid and alcohol users’ withdrawal symptoms.
In fact, it can cause these symptoms to worsen in patients who still have opioids in their systems. Therefore, a doctor will only prescribe naltrexone for an individual who has stopped drinking and/or using opioids.
Under a doctor’s supervision, naltrexone is safe and non-addictive, with no opioid-like effects. However, it should only be taken after completely abstaining from opioids or alcohol, as its use during substance use can trigger severe withdrawal symptoms.
To ensure safety, your doctor may conduct a naloxone challenge test to confirm you are opioid-free before starting naltrexone. Individuals with acute hepatitis, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers should avoid naltrexone.
While naltrexone is generally well-tolerated, potential side effects include:
More severe symptoms such as upper stomach pain, unexplained bruising or bleeding, jaundice, or dark urine might indicate liver issues and require immediate medical attention.
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Naltrexone offers a valuable option in the array of treatments available for drug and alcohol addiction. SF Suboxone is dedicated to providing the highest quality treatment tailored to each patient’s needs.
Contact us today to learn more about naltrexone and explore the hope and treatments we offer for addiction recovery.
Naltrexone may interact with other medications. However, these interactions don’t necessarily preclude its use but do require careful management under medical supervision.
Inform your healthcare provider of all medications you’re taking so they can make the safest and most effective adjustments to your treatment plan.
Reach out to us at SF Suboxone to start a conversation about how we can support your journey to recovery, ensuring a comprehensive and informed approach every step of the way.
