When alcohol use becomes a constant itch you have to scratch, it’s time to get help. With advancements in substance use disorder treatment, people can now curb cravings with the appropriate use of prescription medications.
Naltrexone for alcohol use disorder allows patients to quiet the mental chatter urging them to take a drink. It makes cravings more manageable so they can focus on doing the meaningful work in recovery. This ultimately increases their chances of a successful recovery.
What is Alcohol Use Disorder?
Alcohol use disorder (AUD), or alcoholism, is the inability to control or stop drinking despite negative consequences. What may begin as casual or social drinking can turn into a dependency.
Chronic stress, difficulty coping with strong emotions, trauma, or co-occurring mental health conditions can all lead to AUD. Over time, drinking becomes less about enjoyment and more about avoiding discomfort.
It becomes harder to function in daily life. Relationships may suffer, work performance can decline, and physical health often deteriorates alongside mental health.
Negative Effects of Alcoholism
Alcoholism affects both the mind and body, often in ways that worsen over time. Excessive drinking can create a cycle where physical and mental health challenges reinforce each other.
Common effects of prolonged alcohol use include:
- Depression and anxiety
- Difficulty regulating emotions, including anger
- Interrupted sleep patterns
- Inability to maintain a stable job or home life
- Weakened immune system
- Digestion issues, including stomach ulcers
- Heart problems
- Liver disease
What is Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a prescription medication approved to treat alcohol use disorder and opioid dependence. Naltrexone is not a sedative, and it does not cause a high. Instead, it works by targeting the brain’s reward system that creates cravings.
The medication is available in two forms:.
- Daily Oral Tablet: The tablet offers flexibility and control. This allows patients to take it at home as part of their daily routine. Because it is self-administered, it is the most popular option for individuals who want to manage their medication independently.
- Long-Acting Monthly Injectable: The injectable form is administered by a healthcare professional and provides consistent medication levels for an entire month. This can improve adherence, as patients don’t need to remember a daily dose, and helps reduce the risk of relapse caused by missed doses. It is convenient for people with busy schedules or transportation challenges and can support those who may struggle with daily medication compliance.
Both forms are effective in reducing cravings and supporting addiction treatment. The choice between the two is typically guided by a healthcare provider. They take a person’s medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences into account during their assessment.
Understanding How Naltrexone Works
To understand how naltrexone works, it helps to understand what happens in the brain when someone drinks alcohol. Alcohol increases the release of dopamine, which creates feelings of pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain begins to associate alcohol with relief and comfort.
Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain. This reduces the pleasurable effects of alcohol. When alcohol no longer produces the same rewarding sensation, cravings often decrease.
This doesn’t eliminate triggers or emotional stressors, but it lowers the intensity of urges. Many people find that with cravings reduced, they can better engage in therapy and build healthier coping skills.
Important Safety Note: Opioids and Liver Health
Because naltrexone blocks opioid receptors, it is critical that patients are completely free of all opioids (including prescription painkillers) for at least 7 to 14 days before starting treatment.
Taking naltrexone with opioids in your system can trigger precipitated withdrawal, a severe medical emergency. Additionally, because the liver processes this medication, a healthcare provider will typically perform a simple blood test to ensure your liver is healthy enough for treatment.
Common Naltrexone Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Like any medication, naltrexone may cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary. Common side effects of naltrexone may include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Mild anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
These symptoms often improve as the body adjusts. Healthcare providers typically monitor patients closely and can adjust dosage or provide guidance if side effects become uncomfortable.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Naltrexone?
Naltrexone for alcohol use disorder may be appropriate for individuals who:
- Experience frequent alcohol cravings
- Have difficulty stopping once they start drinking
- Have relapsed due to strong urges
The Benefits of Medication Assisted Treatment
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications like naltrexone with therapy. Research shows that this combined approach significantly improves outcomes for people with alcohol use disorder.
Naltrexone for alcohol use disorder helps reduce cravings, but lasting recovery also requires addressing underlying patterns, emotional triggers, and behavioral habits. Medication does not replace recovery work. Rather, it supports it.
Start Letting Life Happen for You with San Diego Alcohol Rehabilitation
At Shoreline Recovery Center, we provide evidence-based, outpatient treatment within our San Diego alcohol rehabilitation programs. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol addiction, our team can help determine whether naltrexone may be an appropriate part of your treatment plan. Through therapy, accountability, and personalized care, we help patients reclaim their lives and heal with confidence.
