Naltrexone is a prescription medication used to help manage and treat alcohol and opioid use disorder. It blocks the effects of heroin and other opioids, preventing the user from experiencing a “high” when taking the drug. While it can be an effective addiction treatment, there are certain things to avoid when taking naltrexone to ensure the best possible outcomes.
One of the most important things to avoid when taking naltrexone is drinking alcohol. Although naltrexone helps reduce the cravings for alcohol, drinking can still trigger a relapse. Therefore, it’s important to avoid any kind of alcohol when using this medication. Additionally, any drugs containing opioids should also be avoided. These drugs can interact with naltrexone, weakening the medication’s effect.
If a patient has been taking naltrexone for longer than a few months, they may also need to avoid taking high doses of naltrexone. Taking too much naltrexone can cause a rebound effect, which causes a patient to experience intense craving for alcohol or opioids. It’s also important to avoid taking non-prescribed drugs or supplements while taking naltrexone because they may affect the way the medication works.
Aside from avoiding certain substances, it’s important to avoid certain behaviors as well when taking naltrexone. For starters, it’s important to avoid any situations or people that might trigger an addiction relapse. This could include hanging out with certain friends or going to certain places that might lead to a craving for alcohol or drugs. Additionally, it’s important to avoid engaging in activities that don’t support recovery, such as using drugs, engaging in risk-taking behavior, or using substances as a way to cope with life’s problems.
Finally, it’s important to avoid being around someone who is using drugs or alcohol. Being around a substance-user might trigger a relapse or temptation, which could be dangerous. It’s also important to avoid giving naltrexone to someone else, as well as taking it while pregnant.
Though it can be an effective treatment, naltrexone needs to be used with caution. Avoiding certain substances and behaviors is essential when taking naltrexone in order to ensure the best possible outcomes. If a patient is considering taking naltrexone, it is important to speak with a doctor first and follow their instructions to understand how to use the medication safely and effectively.