If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor, health care provider or pharmacist first. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, meaning it blocks opioid receptors. If taken too soon after opioid use, it can trigger precipitated withdrawal, a sudden and intense withdrawal reaction. Understanding what Naltrexone is, how it works, and what side effects to watch for can help you feel more in control of your treatment process. While many people tolerate it well, some may experience nausea, fatigue, headaches, or mood shifts.
Chronic Pain Conditions
If you are about to harm yourself, call 911 or call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Caregivers and family should also monitor people using Vivitrol for suicidal thoughts and depression. Contact a healthcare provider right away for any of the following symptoms. Vivitrol may cause some discomfort near where it is injected, mild discomfort is a normal side effect. Sometimes the amount of discomfort may be high, which could be a sign of a more serious reaction. In clinical studies, patients taking low-dose naltrexone to treat chronic pain reported symptom relief in one to three months.
Naltrexone side effects and how to avoid them
Louis A. Cona, MD has been a pioneer in regenerative cell therapy, providing his first stem cell studies over a decade ago. He continues to naltrexone side effects research alternative therapies with IRB-certified clinical trials in Grand Cayman. According to experts at the National MS Society, more substantial clinical trials are needed to confirm LDN’s effectiveness for treating multiple sclerosis. If you’re exploring the side effects of low dose naltrexone, you’re likely seeking detailed information. We evaluate medical studies published in reputable scientific journals to form our opinions on a product or health matter, ensuring the utmost scientific precision. DVC Stem employs a dedicated team of medical professionals, tasked with verifying the accuracy of health claims and summaries of medical research.
Efficacy of LDN in Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain
Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any liver conditions before starting treatment. Monitoring liver function through regular tests is essential to detect any potential issues early. Keep in mind that digestive symptoms can also occur with opioid withdrawal. Naltrexone treatment is started after you are alcoholism no longer taking opioids for a period of time. Before you start taking this medicine, be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you think you are still having withdrawal symptoms.
- This is to avoid side effects like sleep disturbance and intense dreams.
- The benefits of being prescribed naltrexone rather than other MMT options like methadone is that naltrexone itself is not an opioid.
- While naltrexone works for many people, not everyone is going to get a good response, and it’s not just because they didn’t give it a good effort.
- While many Naltrexone side effects are mild and temporary, proper management can help improve comfort and ensure a smoother recovery process.
- Always follow your doctor’s dosage instructions for safe and effective use.
- The decision to continue or discontinue medication-assisted treatment is also highly individualized.
- When naltrexone is taken at home, it is usually taken once a day with or without food.
- If you develop serious side effects while taking naltrexone, call your doctor right away.
- People with pre-existing liver conditions should use caution when taking this medication.
It works by decreasing the craving for alcohol and blocking the effects of opiate medications and opioid street drugs. Naltrexone side effects typically resolve within a few days to weeks as your body adjusts to the medication. However, any persistent or bothersome symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider. The majority of naltrexone side effects typically resolve within a few days to weeks as the body adjusts to the medication.
Side Effects of Naltrexone: What You Should Know Before Starting
However, if they persist or become severe, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any side effects you experience. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if needed. Remember, your health and well-being are the top priorities in your recovery journey.
However, naltrexone isn’t typically prescribed on its own for this use. To learn more about taking Contrave for weight loss, talk with your doctor. Educating patients about what to expect when starting Naltrexone can alleviate anxiety and encourage adherence. Knowing that side effects like nausea and headaches are temporary can help patients stay committed to the treatment plan.
Weight Loss and Metabolism Support
Check with your physician if you have health questions or concerns. The liver processes Naltrexone, and in rare cases, it can cause liver toxicity, especially at high doses. People with pre-existing liver conditions should use caution when taking this medication. While Naltrexone is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience severe side effects.
Another strategy that some users suggest to be effective for reducing naltrexone-related stomach aches is administration of an antacid under medical supervision. In most cases, the stomach aches from naltrexone are bearable and aren’t severe enough to warrant treatment discontinuation. At low doses among individuals that aren’t withdrawing from any medications, chills may not be extreme. Most would consider chills to be a very rare side effect of naltrexone, but one that could occur. Some may also speculate that if naltrexone causes some users to sweat more than usual, this increased sweating may contribute partially to the chills. If you are seeking treatment for alcohol or drug abuse and addiction, the team at Sunlight Recovery can help.