This medication can be used to prevent people who have been addicted to certain drugs (opiates) from taking them again. It is used as part of a treatment that is complete for drug abuse (e.g., compliance monitoring, counseling, behavioral contract, lifestyle changes). This medication must not be utilized in individuals currently taking opiates, including methadone. Doing so causes withdrawal that is sudden.
Naltrexone belongs to a class of drugs known as opiate antagonists. It works into the brain to prevent opiate effects (e.g., feelings of wellbeing, pain relief). It also decreases the want to take opiates.
This medicine normally used to treat alcohol abuse. It can help people drink less alcohol or altogether stop drinking. Additionally decreases the desire to drink alcohol when used with remedy program that includes counseling, support, and changes in lifestyle.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, frequently 50 milligrams once daily or since directed by the doctor. This medication may be given as part of a scheduled program where a health care professional will watch you take the medication. In this case, your doctor may order a higher dose (100-150 milligrams) to be taken every 2-3 days to make it easier to schedule clinic visits. Naltrexone could be taken with food or antacids if stomach upset occurs.
A urine test should really be done to test for recent drug use that is opiate. Your doctor may give you another medication (naloxone challenge test) to test for opiate use. Don't use any opiates for at least 7 days prior to starting naltrexone. You may need to stop particular opiate drugs (such as methadone) 10 to 14 times before starting naltrexone.
Dosage is based on your condition that is medical and to treatment. Your doctor may start you at a lower dose and monitor you for any relative side-effects or withdrawal symptoms before increasing your dose. Take this medication as directed. Don't increase your dose, take it more often, or stop taking it without your doctor's approval.
Use this medication frequently to obtain the benefit that is most from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
Tell your medical professional if you start making use of drugs or alcohol once more.
Nausea, headache, dizziness, anxiety, tiredness, and sleep disorders may occur. In a small number of people, mild opiate withdrawal symptoms may occur, including abdominal cramps, restlessness, bone/joint pain, muscle aches, and nose that is runny. If some of these effects persist or worsen, tell your pharmacist or doctor promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have side that is serious.
Unexpected opiate withdrawal symptoms can happen within a few minutes after taking naltrexone. Tell your doctor right away if any of these withdrawal symptoms occur: abdominal cramps, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, joint/bone/muscle aches, mental/mood changes (e.g., anxiety, confusion, extreme sleepiness, visual hallucinations), runny nose.
Naltrexone has rarely caused liver disease that is serious. The risk is increased when bigger doses are used. Discuss the potential risks and advantages together with your doctor. Stop using this medication and inform your doctor right away if you develop signs of liver disease, including: persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin.
A really severe reaction that is allergic this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any outward symptoms of a serious allergic attack, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble respiration.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your pharmacist or doctor.
In the US -
Call your physician for medical advice about side effects. You may report effects that are side FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your physician for medical advice about adverse effects. You may report effects that are side Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Before taking naltrexone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any other allergies if you are allergic to it; or. This product may contain ingredients that are inactive that may cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for lots more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: current or recent use (into the final 7 to 14 days) of any kind of opioid drug (such as morphine, methadone, buprenorphine), renal disease, liver disease.
You need to carry or wear medical identification stating that you are using this drug so that appropriate treatment may be given in a medical emergency.
This drug might make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid beverages that are alcoholic.
After stopping naltrexone treatment, you may be more sensitive to lower doses of opioids, boosting your risk of possibly side that is life-threatening from the narcotic (e.g., decreased breathing, loss of consciousness).
This medication blocks the results of opiate drugs (including heroin) and similar drugs (opioids). However, big doses of heroin or narcotics can overcome this block. Attempting to overcome this block is really dangerous and may cause injury that is serious loss of consciousness, and death. Be sure you totally understand and accept the risks and advantages of using this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions closely.
Before having surgery or any treatment that is medical inform your doctor or dental practitioner that you are taking this medicine.
During pregnancy, this medication should really be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the potential risks and benefits along with your medical practitioner.
It is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.
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