Naltrexone does not cause feelings of drunkenness or a “high” like alcohol or opioids. This medication works differently in the body and does not produce psychoactive effects that impair judgment or coordination in the way intoxicating substances do.
How Naltrexone Interacts with the Body
Naltrexone functions as an opioid antagonist, meaning it binds to and blocks opioid receptors in the brain. These receptors are the same ones that opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers, and even the body’s natural endorphins, would typically activate. By occupying these receptor sites, naltrexone prevents other substances from attaching and producing their characteristic effects.
This blocking action is why naltrexone is used to help treat both alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD). In individuals with AUD, naltrexone can help reduce heavy drinking and the craving for alcohol by interfering with the reward pathways associated with its consumption. For those with OUD, it blocks the euphoric effects of opioids and can help diminish cravings.
Because naltrexone blocks rather than activates these receptors, it does not create a sense of euphoria, sedation, or intoxication. This mechanism ensures that the medication itself does not induce feelings of being drunk or otherwise impaired.
What to Expect When Taking Naltrexone
The primary effect often experienced is a reduction in the desire or craving for alcohol or opioids. This can make it easier for individuals to abstain from these substances or reduce their consumption.
Some common, typically mild side effects can occur when beginning naltrexone. These may include nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, or anxiety. These effects are usually temporary and often diminish as the body adjusts to the medication over several days or weeks.
The primary benefit of naltrexone is its ability to reduce the rewarding sensation that individuals might experience from consuming alcohol or opioids. Some people might also experience mild digestive upset or minor sleep disturbances, but these are generally manageable.
Safe Use and Important Warnings
Naltrexone should always be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is important to provide your doctor with a complete medical history, especially if you have liver issues, as naltrexone is processed by the liver. Disclosing any recent opioid use is also crucial, as taking naltrexone while opioids are still in your system can cause sudden, severe withdrawal symptoms.
While naltrexone blocks the effects of alcohol and opioids, it does not eliminate the dangers associated with their consumption. It is still possible to overdose on opioids or experience alcohol poisoning if large amounts are consumed while on naltrexone. The medication reduces the pleasurable effects but does not prevent the toxic effects of these substances.
Naltrexone is available in oral tablet form and as an extended-release injectable medication, known as Vivitrol, which is administered once a month. If any concerning or severe side effects occur, it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately.