HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Is Naltrexone Advisable For Alcohol Addiction Withdrawal?

I am struggling with my drinking habits and have been actively involved in 12 step programs. I would like to hear your view on the use of Naltrexone. I have heard great things when used in conjunction with counseling/therapy as my main issue is that I started drinking more as a coping mechanism to deal with serious life circumstances.
Tue, 27 Feb 2018
Report Abuse
Addiction Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Yes, it increases long term success about 25%, but you might not want to take it in this context. Naloxone is a blocker of narcotics. There is some narcotic like substances produced in the context of drinking. Naloxone makes it so you don't get as much joy from drinking. Rarely, taking it WHILE DRINKING can produce a narcotic withdrawal. uhoh!
But once off alcohol, it helps maintain sobriety. Antabuse is about as effective and it ALWAYS makes you SICK if you drink while taking it.
So, detox. Probably in a professional inpatient setting FOLLOWED by medication is the general way this is done.
I find this answer helpful
Note: In case of any other concern or query related to prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, or the recovery of persons with the any type of addiction or substance use, follow up with our Addiction Medicine Specialist. Click here to book a consultation now.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
Is Naltrexone Advisable For Alcohol Addiction Withdrawal?

Yes, it increases long term success about 25%, but you might not want to take it in this context. Naloxone is a blocker of narcotics. There is some narcotic like substances produced in the context of drinking. Naloxone makes it so you don t get as much joy from drinking. Rarely, taking it WHILE DRINKING can produce a narcotic withdrawal. uhoh! But once off alcohol, it helps maintain sobriety. Antabuse is about as effective and it ALWAYS makes you SICK if you drink while taking it. So, detox. Probably in a professional inpatient setting FOLLOWED by medication is the general way this is done.