What is Naltrexone used for?
Naltrexone is an opiate antagonist used to treat narcotic drug or alcohol addiction. This drug fights the effects of opiate drugs and helps opiate drug addicts and alcoholics to remain abstinent. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
What are the side effects of Naltrexone?
Like other medicines, Naltrexone can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Naltrexone are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.
It is pertinent to note that side effects of Naltrexone cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Naltrexone develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.
Naltrexone can cause side effects such as weakness, tiredness, nervousness, nausea, anxiety, headache, insomnia, stomach upset, sneezing, muscle pain, and blurred vision. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Naltrexone.
What is the recommended dosage of Naltrexone?
The dosage of Naltrexone prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.
Take Naltrexone with a full glass of water.
What if you miss a dose of Naltrexone?
If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Naltrexone medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.
What other drugs could interact with Naltrexone?
- Buprenorphine
- Butorphanol
- Codeine
- Meperidine
- Methadone
It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Naltrexone.
Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines that may increase the effect of Naltrexone, and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.
Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.
What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Naltrexone?
Is it possible for me to take Naltrexone with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Naltrexone?
What are the possible drug interactions of Naltrexone?
How will Naltrexone work in my body?
How should Naltrexone be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Naltrexone drug interactions and side effects?
Where can I buy Naltrexone over the counter?
Naltrexone over the counter can be prescribed and administered by any practitioner who is licensed to prescribe medications, and it is also available in oral pill form for Alcohol Use disorder or as an extended-release intramuscular injectable for Alcohol and Opioid Use disorder.
Can I buy Naltrexone without a prescription?
If you have not been prescribed naltrexone, you cannot be sure about taking it safely. Naltrexone without prescription is not an over-the-counter medication.
Note
The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Naltrexone is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.