Naltrexone is one of the key medications used to treat alcohol addiction, along with psychotherapy. It is safe and efficient, helping the body reduce dependence on alcohol without causing a sudden onset of withdrawal symptoms.
According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, one in ten Americans over the age of 12 has an Alcohol Use Disorder.1 This highlights the importance of FDA-approved and effective treatment methods that address both physical symptoms of alcohol addiction and the addictive behavior itself.
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol addiction, Nurture Nexus Recovery Center offers alcohol addiction treatment programs and 30-day alcohol rehabs that can help!
Understanding Naltrexone Safety And Use For Alcohol Addiction Treatment
Naltrexone is a non-addictive prescription medication designed to reduce alcohol cravings and block the pleasurable effects of drinking.2 It interacts with the opioid receptors in the brain, which are the main reward systems, to prevent any feelings of high, euphoria, or intoxication, and alters your brain into becoming less dependent on alcohol-based reward interactions.
From a safety perspective, naltrexone has been studied for decades and is widely used across the U.S. and globally. When taken according to prescription and a doctor’s recommendation, it is both safe and effective for treating alcohol addiction.
What sets it apart from other addiction treatment medications is that it is not addictive itself, nor does it cause a sudden onset of alcohol withdrawal symptoms once you stop taking it.
Does the FDA Approve Naltrexone for Alcohol Addiction Treatment?
Yes, the FDA has approved Naltrexone for use in alcohol addiction treatment on the grounds of its ability to block alcohol-based rewards and discourage addiction.3 It received approval in 1994 specifically to help individuals reduce heavy drinking and maintain abstinence.
According to research, the use of Naltrexone for alcoholism treatment:
- Reduces relapse rates
- Decreases cravings
- Lowers the number of drinking days
- Increases the chances of maintaining long-term sobriety
Side Effects of Using Naltrexone
Most individuals can handle Naltrexone use without any major discomfort or complications, which is why it is deemed safe to use for alcohol addiction. However, naltrexone can have some side effects, such as:
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Trouble sleeping
- Mild anxiety
- Depression
- Nervousness
Uncommon Side Effects
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Severe abdominal pain
- Dark urine or yellowing of the skin
- Increased liver stress
- Severe allergic reactions
- Depressive symptoms or suicidal thoughts
If you or someone you know is showing uncommon side effects to Naltrexone, alert your nearest care provider immediately and reach out to emergency services should they become passive or unresponsive.
Risk Associated With Naltrexone Use
Naltrexone is only prescribed to individuals who have the capacity to handle it and who meet the requirements of use.4 It does carry some risks that may arise in the case of:
- Comorbid Opioid Abuse
As Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain, it does not pair well with opioid addiction. If someone, especially a high-functioning alcoholic, is currently using opioid medications or illicit opioids during their alcohol addiction treatment, taking naltrexone can cause sudden and severe opioid withdrawal.
- Reduced Liver Health
Naltrexone can stress the liver when taken for long periods and in high doses. People who suffer from hepatitis, liver disease, or weak immunity may face issues with liver health in the long term. Some studies show that severe cases of liver toxicity have been noticed in Naltrexone users as well.
- Opioid Pain Control Treatment:
If an individual is on opioid pain control treatment via prescription medication, these drugs will not work as effectively when taking Naltrexone.5 It can also hinder emergency pain relief in case of accidents or medical crises.
Expert Opinion on Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment
“There is a very real and statistically proven threat of relapse after alcohol addiction treatments. To minimize that risk, we focus on administering FDA-approved medications such as Naltraxone that correct addictive behavior and prevent excessive drinking. Most treatment centers pair these approaches with behavioral and psychotherapy options to promote sustainable recovery.”
–Dr. Oluwole Popoola
How Does Naltrexone Work in Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment?
Naltrexone helps treat alcohol use disorder by blocking opioid receptors in the brain, the mechanism responsible for causing gratification after drinking. Through proper Naltrexone treatment, alcohol users experience:
- Alcohol no longer produces the same “buzz” or reward
- Cravings become easier to resist
- The urge to binge drink significantly decreases
Over time, the brain stops associating drinking with something that feels good. This neurological shift allows people to focus on behavioral change and prevent relapse without feeling an overpowering urge to start drinking again.6
Dosage of Naltrexone for Alcohol Use Disorder
Naltrexone is available in two forms: (i) an oral route tablet and (ii) a delayed-release injection. The method of administration differs depending on how at-risk you are in your addiction and your medication management needs.7
However, the dosage for Naltrexone use in alcohol addiction treatment is as follows:
- Oral Route: a standard 50 mg once daily.
- Injection: 380 mg injected once every 4 weeks.
Are There Any Other Treatment Methods That Help Naltrexone-Based Treatment?
Naltrexone may be effective for alcohol addiction treatment, but it isn’t enough to address the entirety of the addiction. Based on an individual’s addiction treatment needs, the physical symptoms they’re experiencing, and other factors that led to the addiction, the following treatment options can be used alongside Naltrexone:
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Some individuals may experience alcohol addiction with a co-occurring disorder, such as a mental illness. A treatment approach for this case would make use of Medication-Assisted Treatment to ensure none of the medications counteract each other or cause complications.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy is essential for individuals whose addiction stems from social and environmental factors. It makes use of evidence-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, etc., as ways to reinforce positive coping mechanisms and correct addictive behavior.8
Counseling & Group Therapy
Many people who face difficulties with alcohol addiction tend to find lasting recovery through counselling and group therapy approaches. It helps reinforce sustainable recovery and helps individuals understand what was causing their alcoholism and how to prevent relapse in the future.
Is Naltrexone for Alcoholism Covered by Insurance?
Naltrexone-based treatment for alcoholism comes under alcohol addiction treatment through MAT. In most cases, it is seen as a necessary treatment for addiction that is covered in part or completely by most insurance policies.9
At Nurture Nexus Recovery Center, we work with a variety of insurance providers to help make alcohol addiction treatment affordable for the residents of Texas. Some of the policies we accept include:
- Aetna
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Humana
- Medicaid
- Multiplan
If you don’t see your insurance provider in the above list, reach out to us and fill out our online form to verify your insurance. Our team will help you understand what is covered in your Naltrexone for alcoholism treatment and what will be out-of-pocket.
Nurture Nexus Recovery Center Offers Naltrexone for Alcoholism in Texas!
Naltrexone is one of the safest medications for alcohol addiction treatment in Texas. However, it takes more than medication to provide proper addiction treatment, and Nurture Nexus Recovery Center aims to bridge that gap. We provide alcohol addiction treatment, 30-day alcohol rehab programs, and alcohol intervention services. Start your path to a healthier, sober future today by calling (214) 838-7488.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Most Successful Treatment for Alcohol Addiction?
There is no singular approach to alcohol addiction treatment that works best. However, a combination of medications such as Naxolone and psychotherapy approaches tends to have the best results.
Can Alcohol Withdrawal Be Fatal?
Although alcohol withdrawal isn’t a fatal condition, it can be uncomfortable and debilitating fir many people. Alcohol withdrawal needs to be treated through the proper medication that can cater to the physical symptoms of the condition.
Additional Resources
- How To Find the Best Austin Alcohol Treatment Centers
- Expert’s Guide To Finding the Best Alcohol Addiction Treatment Near You
- Can You Take Prednisone and Alcohol Together? Interactions, Metabolism, and Safety
- Taking Trazodone And Alcohol Together? Know The Potential Dangers
- The Dangers of Mixing GHB & Alcohol: What To Stay Away From
