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NALTREXONE (nal TREX one) treats opioid use disorder. It works by blocking the effect of opioids and reducing cravings to use opioids. It may also be used to treat alcohol use disorder. It belongs to a group of medications called opioid blockers. It is most effective when used in combination with counseling and behavior therapy.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
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The medication is injected into a muscle. It is given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
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Do not take this medication with any of the following:
-Opioids, such as codeine, morphine, oxycodone
This medication may also interact with the following:
-Disulfiram
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication. Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
You may be more sensitive to the effects of opioids after you take this medication. This can increase the risk of accidental overdose. Talk to your care team about obtaining an opioid reversal agent, such as naloxone or nalmefene. Know the symptoms of opioid overdose. These may include slow or shallow breathing, shortness of breath, confusion, feeling faint or dizzy, and trouble staying awake. Tell caregivers and close contacts where your reversal agent is stored. Make sure they know how to use it. After giving it, they should call emergency services right away. Reversal agents are a temporary treatment. Repeat doses may be needed.
This medication may affect your coordination, reaction time, or judgment. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Sit up or stand slowly to reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Drinking alcohol with this medication can increase the risk of these side effects.
If you are going to need surgery or a procedure, tell your care team that you are taking this medication.
Wear a medical ID bracelet or chain. Carry a card that describes your condition. List the medications and doses you take on the card.
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It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.
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Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
-Allergic reactions or angioedema—skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs, trouble swallowing or breathing
-Liver injury—right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stool, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing skin or eyes, unusual weakness or fatigue
-Thoughts of suicide or self-harm, worsening mood, feelings of depression
-Trouble breathing
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
-Dizziness
-Drowsiness
-Loss of appetite
-Muscle pain or cramps
-Nausea
-Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site
-Vomiting
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
DISCLAIMER: This drug information content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients should always consult their physician with any questions regarding a medical condition and to obtain medical advice and treatment. Drug information is sourced from GSDD (Gold Standard Drug Database ) provided by Elsevier.
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