Naltrexone Tablets for Alcohol and Opioid Use Disorders

This prescription opioid receptor blocker is used to support alcohol recovery and to help prevent relapse after opioid detoxification. The guide below explains how it works, who it may suit, and how to use it safely. It is available with US delivery from Canada, and you can view options even if you pay without insurance.

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What Naltrexone Is and How It Works

Naltrexone is a pure opioid antagonist used in adults for alcohol dependence and for maintaining an opioid-free state following detox. It binds to opioid receptors and blocks the reinforcing effects if alcohol or opioids are used. That blockade can help reduce cravings for alcohol and discourage opioid use. It does not treat acute withdrawal and should be started only after opioids are fully cleared.

People sometimes search for naltrexone weight loss. That topic reflects off-label interest and is different from this product’s approved uses. The approved tablet is focused on alcohol dependence and on relapse prevention after opioid detoxification as described in official labeling.

Before the first dose, clinicians typically confirm that opioids are absent, sometimes using a naloxone challenge. If opioids are present, taking this medicine may precipitate withdrawal. It is not addictive and does not cause euphoria.

Who It’s For

This treatment is used in adults with alcohol dependence as part of a comprehensive program. It is also used to help prevent relapse in adults who have completed opioid detoxification and are no longer physically dependent. It is not for individuals currently using opioids, those in acute opioid withdrawal, or anyone with a positive urine opioid screen unless fully cleared by a clinician.

People with acute hepatitis or liver failure should not use it. Use caution in liver disease, and seek guidance if you have renal impairment, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Tell your prescriber about all medicines and supplements. Individuals requiring opioid pain therapy may need another approach because this therapy blocks opioid analgesics.

Dosage and Usage

Use exactly as prescribed on your label. For alcohol dependence, many clinicians start with a daily regimen and reassess as part of counseling and support. For relapse prevention after opioid detox, treatment usually begins only when you have been opioid-free for an adequate period as guided by your prescriber. Some programs use a test dose under supervision.

Swallow tablets with water. Take at the same time each day to support adherence. Do not self-adjust. If you anticipate surgery or need opioid pain treatment, contact your care team well in advance. Questions about Naltrexone dose for weight loss should be directed to a clinician, as weight management is outside the approved use of this product.

Avoid any opioid-containing products while taking this medicine. That includes certain cough, cold, and anti-diarrheal products. Always read labels and ask a pharmacist if unsure.

Strengths and Forms

Commonly available as 50 mg oral tablets. Some regions also offer an extended-release injectable naltrexone given monthly by a healthcare professional. Availability can vary by jurisdiction and supplier. Your prescriber will determine the format that suits your treatment plan.

Missed Dose and Timing

If you miss a dose, take it when you remember the same day. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and return to your schedule. Do not double up. Consistent daily timing helps maintain receptor blockade. Set reminders or use a pill organizer to support routine use.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store tablets at room temperature in a dry place, away from moisture and direct light. Keep in the original child-resistant container with the label intact. Do not store in a bathroom. When you travel, keep the prescription-labeled container in your carry-on, along with a copy of your prescription. Do not share your medicine with anyone.

Benefits

As part of a structured program, this therapy can help reduce alcohol cravings and the rewarding effects of alcohol. In those who have completed opioid detoxification, receptor blockade may discourage relapse if opioids are used. Tablets are taken orally and do not produce dependence. Many programs pair the medicine with counseling and regular follow-ups to support goals.

Side Effects and Safety

• Nausea or stomach upset
• Headache
• Trouble sleeping
• Dizziness or fatigue
• Anxiety or restlessness
• Joint or muscle aches
• Rash or increased sweating

Serious effects are uncommon but can include liver-related problems, severe allergic reactions, or depression. Seek urgent care for signs of liver injury such as dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes, severe abdominal pain, or unusual fatigue. Taking opioids while on this treatment can lead to reduced effect of opioids or, if high doses are attempted, risk of overdose after blockade wanes. Contact a clinician if mood changes or self-harm thoughts occur.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Avoid all opioid analgesics, opioid cough suppressants, and opioid anti-diarrheals during therapy. Tell your prescriber about any recent opioid exposure, including tramadol or methadone. Use caution with other medicines that can affect the liver, including certain acetaminophen-containing products or isoniazid. Carry medical identification noting that you take an opioid blocker. If you need pain control, your team can plan non-opioid alternatives.

Alcohol or sedating drugs can worsen coordination or judgment. Review your plan with a healthcare professional, especially if you have coexisting conditions in Mental Health.

What to Expect Over Time

Response varies and depends on adherence, counseling, and support systems. Many people notice reduced alcohol cravings with consistent use as part of a program. After opioid detox, the blockade helps discourage use, but ongoing behavioral support is important. If you stop treatment and then use opioids, sensitivity may increase, so overdose risk can rise. Stay connected with your care team for monitoring and guidance.

Compare With Alternatives

For alcohol dependence, other approved options include Campral (acamprosate). For opioid use disorder, maintenance therapies such as Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) work differently and are used under a structured program. For weight management, the approved combination of naltrexone plus bupropion is available as Contrave; patients may encounter references to Contrave 8 mg/90 mg tablets when discussing that specific therapy with their clinician.

If you prefer a brand tablet, your prescriber may consider Revia® depending on availability and your history. For general weight-management education, see our article Saxenda For Weight Loss to understand how different classes compare.

Pricing and Access

View current pricing and supply options on this page. You can add your prescription and see Canadian pricing with US shipping from Canada. Many customers also compare related therapies; if you are researching combination therapy, you can review Contrave Canadian pricing within its product listing for context.

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Availability and Substitutions

Stock can vary by manufacturer. If your item is unavailable, your prescriber may recommend a therapeutically appropriate alternative or a different brand. For weight-management questions, discussions often include Naltrexone bupropion for weight loss, which is a distinct therapy and requires its own prescription.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

This medicine may suit adults committed to alcohol recovery programs or those maintaining an opioid-free state after detox. It is not suitable for anyone currently using opioids, those with acute liver failure, or patients who cannot abstain from opioids before starting. Speak with your clinician if you have chronic pain conditions, as plans may need adjustment.

• Multi-month fills: Ask your prescriber about a longer supply to reduce monthly refills.
• Refill reminders: Set calendar alerts so you do not miss doses or renewals.
• Program support: Combine medicine with counseling and peer support.
• Travel prep: Pack enough tablets and carry a copy of your prescription.
• Opioid safety: Carry medical ID stating you take an opioid blocker.

Low dose naltrexone weight loss is an off-label topic and separate from this product’s approved indications. Your clinician can advise on the most appropriate therapy for your goals.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• How long should I stay on treatment in my program?
• What signs of liver problems should I watch for and report?
• What non-opioid options exist if I need pain control or surgery?
• Could any of my current medicines contain hidden opioids?
• How will we monitor progress and safety over time?
• Best dose of naltrexone for weight loss if considering separate therapy?
• What counseling or support resources should I add to my plan?

Authoritative Sources

FDA DailyMed (Naltrexone HCl)Health Canada Drug Product DatabaseVivitrol (extended-release naltrexone)

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