For individuals struggling with an alcohol use disorder or opioid use disorder, there is help. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration, Naltrexone is now a viable treatment for substance abuse, specifically alcohol and opioid abuse.
At Total Regenerative Mental Health, we utilize Naltrexone in our innovative addiction treatment program. In combination with a healthy, vitamin-rich treatment and consistent therapeutic support, our Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program has helped many along the path of recovery.
Find out if you’re eligible for Naltrexone treatments today at Total RMH.
What Is Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a prescription drug injection or pill used in the treatment of opioid use and alcohol use disorders. Unlike other medication-assisted treatments, it is not an opioid, nor does it cause addiction. Naltrexone is utilized in addiction treatment as a non-addictive medication that helps to bind the opioid receptors as heroin or morphine would. However, it blocks the euphoria and sedative effects; this makes it ideal for treatment.
When Naltrexone is used to treat alcohol use disorders, it binds to the endorphin receptors and inhibits the ‘buzzed’ euphoric feeling alcohol creates. It can also decrease cravings, making it ideal for individuals who are sober but finding it difficult to maintain sobriety long-term.
What Is Naltrexone Used For?
Used in the management of alcohol and opioid use disorders, Naltrexone is a non-addictive pain reliever used in Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). Specifically used in alcohol and opioid drug treatment, it is unsafe to use within 1-2 weeks of last use. Using Naltrexone before your body has detoxed the substance can cause sudden opioid withdrawal.
Symptoms of withdrawal that can be onset by premature Naltrexone use include:
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Muscle aches
- Increased tearing
- Insomnia
- Runny nose
- Sweating
- Yawning
- Abdominal cramping
- Diarrhea
- Dilated pupils
- Goosebumps
- Nausea
- Vomiting”
Sudden onset of these symptoms can be dangerous, cause dehydration, and alter the impact of other opioids on the system.
Individuals who use Naltrexone for alcohol use disorders should be wary of how soon it is prescribed. For some, use close together can cause nausea and vomiting, but it can help a person maintain sobriety.
One detrimental effect of Naltrexone use is that it is associated with a higher risk of accidental overdose with individuals who relapse. Naltrexone is extremely effective in helping the body reset. This can alter the amount of drug an individual’s body can handle and when relapse occurs, the individual takes the same amount, causing an accidental overdose.
How Long Does Naltrexone Stay In Your System?
How long Naltrexone stays in your system depends on the type of naltrexone administered. Provided in either an injection or daily pill, the length that it remains effective is dramatically different.
For the daily 50mg pill, Naltrexone works in your body for approximately 24 hours. Larger doses can last and work longer when prescribed by a doctor.
Individuals who get a Naltrexone injection as part of a treatment program, are administered the tests every four weeks.
Find Out if You’re Eligible for Naltrexone Today at Total RMH
At Total RMH, our goal is your regenerative mental health. Our state-of-the-art facility and licensed expert care provide a safe and supportive location for clients to experience compassionate care that transforms rehabilitation.
By utilizing individualized care programs in private rooms, clients can continue working, learning, and living through MAT. Out MAT program utilizes the best treatment protocols detailed to meet your exact metabolic needs.
Feel relief, repair your body, recover yourself, and rebuild your life with our detox and recovery services.