Taken together, this combination could potentially what is alcoholism cause sedation or excessive sleepiness. Naltrexone may interact with some antidiarrheal medications (medications for diarrhea), specifically those that contain opioids. Naltrexone has a slightly larger effect size than acamprosate but has more adverse effects including headache, nausea, fatigue and lowered mood. These effects are usually transient and rarely necessitate cessation of therapy.
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- Naltrexone, while effective for many, can cause a range of side effects.
- Naltrexone should not be taken by people who are still drinking heavily or those who are alcohol-dependent.
- We present the results for end-of-treatment outcomes and for post-treatment follow-up outcomes separately.
- Our family program offers education, resources and support to loved ones of Ria Health members.
However, it can’t prevent an overdose, in the event that a very high dose of one or more opioids is taken. Naltrexone should also not be taken with opioids still in a person’s system. Everyone who seeks help for addiction deserves access to all the tools that might support their recovery. Therapy, support groups, lifestyle changes, and medications all have a place in that toolbox. Naltrexone is one tool—a powerful one—that should be utilized more widely. It’s not a magic cure (no single treatment is), but it can meaningfully tip the scales in the patient’s favor.
Meta-analyses
AddictionResource aims to present the most accurate, trustworthy, and up-to-date medical content to our readers. Our team does their best for our readers to help them stay informed about vital healthcare decisions. All information provided in featured rehab listings is verified by the facility officials. The details are kept up to date to help people with addiction treatment needs get the most naltrexone side effects full and precise facts about the rehabilitation facility.
- If you have questions about drug interactions that may affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- He earned an MD degree in 2008 and later completed Harvard Medical School’s lifestyle medicine training in 2012, before obtaining a PhD in holistic health and an ScD in sports nutrition.
- It’s not known whether naltrexone should be taken during pregnancy.
Moderators of the Main Effects of Naltrexone and Acamprosate
Resuming the doses of opioids you were using before starting naltrexone can be very dangerous and can potentially lead to death. You can also have a bad reaction where you stop breathing if you take opioids to try to overcome the effects of this medicine. Should you feel the need to use opioids while on or after stopping naltrexone, contact your healthcare provider.
