Opioid addiction is a complex and devastating condition that affects over 6.1 million people in the United States.[1] People with opioid use disorder typically require intensive treatment and ongoing support to avoid relapse.
Doctors may offer naltrexone treatment to support recovery from opioid addiction. Naltrexone is an FDA-approved prescription drug that blocks the effects of opioids. Naltrexone works by reducing cravings for opioids.[2]
This article will explore opioid addiction treatment that includes naltrexone. You will learn:
- How opioid dependence develops
- What naltrexone is
- The side effects and risks of naltrexone
- What to expect in naltrexone treatment for opioid addiction
- Where to find comprehensive treatment and support
Contact The Best Treatment specialists to learn about our effective, holistic opioid addiction treatment program. Our intake specialists can answer your questions, verify your insurance, and recommend the right treatment program. Contact us now to schedule an intake assessment.
Opioid Addiction: An Overview
Opioids are a class of highly addictive illicit and prescription drugs. People who misuse opioid drugs may quickly develop a physical and psychological dependence on them. Opioid use disorder can be very challenging to overcome. Most people with this condition require significant treatment and support to stop taking opioids.
Many people develop opioid addiction after becoming dependent on a prescription painkiller. Doctors sometimes prescribe opioid pain relievers to help patients manage moderate to severe pain. In addition to relieving pain, opioids can produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation.[3]
People may like the way they feel after taking opioids and want to take more. People who misuse opioids can develop physical dependence. Opioid misuse includes:
- Taking a higher dose of opioids than prescribed
- Using prescription opioids for a longer period than prescribed
- Ingesting opioids differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
- Taking doses of opioids more frequently than advised
- Using opioids without a prescription
People who become addicted to opioids must seek professional treatment to detox from these potent drugs safely. They must then continue treatment to learn to avoid relapse. Many medical professionals recommend medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to help people overcome opioid dependence.[1]
What is Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a prescription medication that doctors may use to treat patients with opioid dependence. Naltrexone is not an opioid. It is not addictive. However, it works similarly to opioids.
Naltrexone binds to opioid receptors in the brain. It works by blocking opioid receptors.[4] This prevents people from experiencing the pleasurable side effects of opioids such as heroin.
Taking Naltrexone during opioid addiction treatment can help limit cravings and reduce the risk of relapse.
People in treatment for opioid use disorder typically receive monthly IM injections of naltrexone.
The Effects and Risks of Naltrexone
People who are curious about using naltrexone during opioid addiction treatment must consult with a doctor. They must report any medications they are taking and their existing medical conditions.
Naltrexone may cause side effects. Potential side effects of naltrexone include:[4]
- Nausea and vomiting
- Joint pain
- Muscle cramping
- Sleep problems
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Decreased appetite
- Dizziness
Rarely, people experience more severe side effects after receiving doses of naltrexone, including:
- Allergic reaction
- Depression
- Injection site reactions, including severe pain, tissue death, swelling, and open wounds
- Pneumonia
Your doctor will determine if you are a good candidate for naltrexone treatment. People who are sensitive to the effects of naltrexone may need to explore other treatment options.
Naltrexone Treatment for Opioid Addiction: What to Expect
People who take short-acting opioids must wait at least seven full days after their last dose to receive naltrexone. People using long-acting opioids must wait 14 days before starting naltrexone therapy. Medical professionals may conduct a naloxone challenge test before beginning treatment.
While receiving naltrexone treatment, people must avoid drinking alcohol, using opioids, or taking other illicit drugs. People must also avoid taking sedatives or tranquilizers. Combining naltrexone and other drugs can cause dangerous side effects, including withdrawal symptoms or overdose.
People in a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program will receive comprehensive therapies alongside naltrexone or other medications.[5] Here is an overview of what to expect in an opioid addiction rehab program.
Assessment
Before beginning treatment, your doctor will ask questions about your mental and physical health, substance use, and more. You may undergo lab testing and a physical exam, as well.
Detox
During detox, your treatment team will monitor your withdrawal symptoms and provide treatment as needed. Treatment may include counseling, medications, mental health care, and other evidence-based therapies. This treatment and supervision will keep you safe during the detox period.
Treatment
After detox, your treatment team will provide mental health and physical care to keep you on track in recovery. You will also participate in other evidence-based therapies, including:
- Behavioral therapies
- Relapse-prevention education
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Aftercare planning
Your doctor will determine when to end naltrexone treatment. After completing treatment, you must follow an aftercare plan to stay focused on long-term recovery.
Find Naltrexone Treatment in Florida Now
If you or someone you love struggles with opioid abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact The Best Treatment specialists to explore our comprehensive rehab programs in Lantana, Florida or to learn more about naltrexone treatment.
References:
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration: Information about Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): What Is Naltrexone?
- American Society of Addiction Medicine: Opioid Addiction
- National Institute of Health: Naltrexone
- SAMHSA: Medications for Substance Use Disorders
