Naltrexone (brand names Revia and Vivitrol) is an opioid receptor antagonist employed chiefly in the direction of alcohol dependency and opioid dependency. Naltrexone is every now and then used for rapid detoxification (“rapid detox”) regimes for opioid dependence.
Naltrexone is a paragon opioid antagonist treatment medication: It is a pure, potent antagonist that can be taken by mouth once daily or every other day, and has minimum side effects.
What is its drug class and mechanism?
Revia is a narcotic antagonist. It is believed to function by halting the consequences of injectable opioids (e.g., heroin, cocaine, narcotic pain relievers). It has also been demonstrated to decrease alcohol intake.
Who can’t use it?
Naltrexone should not be taken if you are allergic to any ingredient in this drug or taking narcotic medications for pain. If you are dependent on narcotics, are experiencing withdrawal symptoms from narcotics, have failed the challenge test with this drug, or have tested positive for narcotics. In the above condition you can’t take this drug. Also in case you have hepatitis, liver failure, or liver disease, this medication should not be used.
Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.
What side effects it can cause?
Side effects associated with this medicine are
- nausea,
- sneezing,
- nasal stuffiness,
- anxiety,
- nervousness,
- headache,
- sleeping trouble,
- stomach upset,
- muscle pain,
- decreased sexual function or desire,
- blurred vision,
- thirst,
- ringing in the ears,
- weakness and tiredness may occur.
If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you develop:
- skin rash,
- confusion,
- mood changes,
- hallucinations,
- vomiting,
- severe diarrhea,
- breathing trouble.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Will I get sick if I stop Naltrexone suddenly?
No, it never causes any adverse impact after stopping the drug. Stop does not show a “return” effect to resume alcohol use when this drug is discontinued.
What should I do if I need an operation or pain medication?
You should carry a card explaining that you are taking naltrexone. Many pain medications that are not opioids are available for use. If you need surgery, this treatment should be discontinued at least 3 days earlier.
What are its warnings and precautions?
Do not use Revia if you are hypersensitive to any component in Revia, or if you are taking narcotic medicines for pain, are depending on narcotics, are going through withdrawal symptoms from narcotics, have not succeeded in the challenge test with Revia, or have tested positive for narcotics, or if you have hepatitis, liver failure or liver disease. Contact your doctor or health care provider instantly if any of these are applicable to you.