Naltrexone – What It Is and How It Works

Ever wondered why doctors prescribe a tiny pill called naltrexone? In simple terms, it blocks the brain receptors that make opioids and alcohol feel rewarding. When those receptors are blocked, cravings drop and the urge to drink or use opioids weakens. This makes it a handy tool for people trying to stay clean or sober.

Common Uses of Naltrexone

The most familiar use is in treating opioid dependence. After a person finishes a detox program, naltrexone can keep them from slipping back into abuse. It’s also approved for alcohol use disorder. Studies show that regular dosing reduces the number of drinks and helps people stay abstinent longer.

Doctors sometimes use low‑dose naltrexone (LDN) for off‑label purposes like chronic pain, inflammation, or certain skin conditions. The evidence is still emerging, but many patients report feeling less pain or fewer flare‑ups. If you’re thinking about LDN, talk to a doctor who knows the dosing tricks.

Safety, Dosage, and What to Watch For

Typical adult doses for opioid or alcohol dependence are 50 mg taken once daily. The pill should be taken after you’re opioid‑free for at least 7–10 days; otherwise, you could go into sudden withdrawal. If you miss a dose, just take it as soon as you remember—don’t double up.

Side effects are usually mild. Expect possible nausea, headache, dizziness, or a slight fatigue. These often fade after a week. Rarely, people get liver enzyme elevations, so your doctor might check liver function before starting and during treatment.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are special cases. There isn’t enough data to say it’s safe, so most clinicians avoid prescribing it unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.

Interaction-wise, avoid mixing naltrexone with opioid painkillers like morphine or codeine—those won’t work and could cause pain spikes. Alcohol can still be consumed, but the goal of treatment is to reduce intake, so moderation is key.

What to do if you feel weird? Call your doctor if you get severe stomach pain, yellow skin/eyes, or a sudden rash. Those could signal a liver issue or an allergic reaction.

Finally, remember that naltrexone works best with counseling, support groups, or therapy. It’s a piece of the puzzle, not a magic fix. Pairing medication with behavioral strategies gives the highest chance of staying sober.

Bottom line: naltrexone is a solid, well‑studied option for opioid and alcohol dependence. It’s cheap, taken once a day, and has a manageable side‑effect profile. If you think it might help you or a loved one, schedule a chat with a healthcare professional to see if it’s the right fit.