Category

• Opioid (narcotic) abuse therapy adjunct
• Opioid (narcotic) antagonist
• Alcohol abuse therapy adjunct

Description

Naltrexone (nal-TREK-zone) is used to help narcotic addicts who have stopped taking narcotics to stay drug-free. It is also used to help alcoholics stay alcohol-free. The medicine is not a cure for addiction. It is used as part of an overall program that may include counseling, attending support group meetings, and other treatment recommended by your doctor.

Naltrexone is not a narcotic. It works by blocking the effects of narcotics, especially the ``high'" feeling that makes you want to use them. It also may block the ``high'" feeling that may make you want to use alcohol. It will not produce any narcotic-like effects or cause mental or physical dependence. It will not prevent you from becoming impaired while drinking alcohol.

Naltrexone will cause withdrawal symptoms in people who are physically dependent on narcotics. Therefore, naltrexone treatment is started after you are no longer dependent on narcotics. The length of time this takes may depend on which narcotic you took, the amount you took, and how long you took it. Before you start taking this medicine, be sure to tell your doctor if you think you are still having withdrawal symptoms.

Naltrexone is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:

Oral
• Tablets (U.S. and Canada)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S.—

• ReVia

In Canada—

• ReVia

Generic name product may be available in the U.S.