Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 8, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Vivitrol
Available Dosage Forms:
- Powder for Suspension, Extended Release
Therapeutic Class: Ethanol Dependency
Pharmacologic Class: Opioid Antagonist
Uses for naltrexone
Naltrexone injection is used to help narcotic dependents 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 using naltrexone, be sure to tell your doctor if you think you are still having withdrawal symptoms.
Naltrexone is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.
Before using naltrexone
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For naltrexone, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to naltrexone or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship o...
