Naltrexone Patient Information
Naltrexone is a prescription drug that is used to treat people who have quit drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs. It is considered most effective when used in conjunction with other methods to combat alcoholism and drug addiction, such as therapy and support groups. Naltrexone does have some risk of adverse health effects and is not considered a cure for substance abuse.
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Warning
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Naltrexone is not considered a remedy for physical withdrawal symptoms from alcohol or other drugs, according to MedlinePlus. In addition, those who are still drinking or using illicit drugs should not take the medication because it can create possibly life-threatening liver damage in such cases. Those taking prescription medications such as opoid painkillers like Vicodin, even if not abusing such drugs, are also contraindicated from naltrexone treatment.
Precautions
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Women who are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant should avoid naltrexone treatment, according to MedlinePlus. In addition, naltrexone is not considered effective against suicidal thoughts and tendencies that sometimes accompany quitting drugs or alcohol. Those who have severe depression should pursue additional professional help. Naltrexone also may not mix with other drugs used in combating substance abuse, such as methadone and Antabuse.
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Dosage
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Naltrexone injections are available, but the medication is usually given to patients in pill form, according to MedlinePlus. Some clinics will only administer naltrexone pills on-site. Such patients may take the pill daily, every other day, every three days or every day except Sunday depending on their individual healthcare plan. Patients who take naltrexone pills at home usually take the medication once per day.
Possible Side Effects
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A number of side effects, including allergic reaction, are possible with any type of naltrexone treatment, according to MedlinePlus. Possible side effects include the following: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomachache, constipation and loss of appetite. Additional symptoms are as follows: headache, dizziness, anxiety, nervousness, tearfulness, rash, muscle or joint pain, sleeping problems and increased or decreased energy levels. If the side effects become severe or include hallucinations, blurred vision and confusion, emergency medical attention is necessary.
Cost
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Some health insurance plans will cover all or part of the cost of naltrexone treatment at home or in a clinic. However, the specific coverage depends on the individual's healthcare plan. As of September 2009, 30 50 mg naltrexone tablets cost about $104 at a pharmacy. Brand-name naltrexone, marketed as ReVia, cost approximately $250 for a bottle of 30 50 mg pills.
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