What is Naltrexone and How Does it Help With Substance Use Disorder?

Millions in the United States are affected by substance use disorder (SUD). It’s a complex problem that can negatively impact your physical and mental health, career aspirations, and social relationships.  

Our team at Magnolia Medical Group specializes in addiction recovery, utilizing individual therapy, group counseling, and medication-assisted treatment programs to help individuals overcome SUD.

We also offer dual-diagnosis treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, and other mental health conditions that often occur as a result (sometimes the cause) of SUD.   

Here’s how Naltrexone can help manage your recovery and why we may recommend it for SUD.   

What is Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is a prescription medication cleared by the FDA for treating alcohol dependence and opioid use disorder. It belongs to a class of drugs called opioid antagonists, meaning it blocks the effects of opioids in the brain.

This action helps reduce cravings and prevents the pleasurable effects of opioids and alcohol.

Naltrexone is available in two primary forms:

Oral tablets

Typically taken once daily, oral Naltrexone is a convenient option for individuals who prefer or require a daily medication routine.

Extended-release injectable (Vivitrol®)

Administered once a month, this form provides consistent medication levels that may be ideal for those who struggle with daily adherence.

How it works

Naltrexone’s effectiveness lies in its ability to:

Block opioid receptors

Naltrexone prevents opioids such as heroin or prescription painkillers from binding to opioid receptors in the brain. This eliminates the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids, reducing the incentive to use them.

Reduce alcohol cravings

Naltrexone is clinically proven to modulate the brain’s reward pathways involved in alcohol consumption. This helps curb cravings and reduce heavy drinking episodes.

Support recovery

By diminishing the rewarding effects of substances, Naltrexone helps individuals focus on behavioral therapies, counseling, and other aspects of their recovery plan without the constant distraction of cravings or relapse triggers.

Candidates for Naltrexone

Naltrexone is not suitable for everyone. Your Magnolia Medical Group provider develops individualized programs tailored to your health and other needs. For instance, individuals with liver disease cannot take Naltrexone.

Additionally, Naltrexone is effective for individuals who have already detoxed from opioids or alcohol. However, Naltrexone should not be taken while opioids are still in the system, as it can cause severe withdrawal symptoms.

You must also be committed to a comprehensive treatment strategy that includes counseling, support groups, or other therapies.

Benefits of Naltrexone in treating SUD

The benefits of Naltrexone include:

Non-addictive

Unlike some medications used in opioid addiction treatment, such as methadone or buprenorphine, Naltrexone has no potential for abuse or dependence.

Convenience

The monthly injectable form (Vivitrol®) eliminates the need for daily dosing, increasing adherence.

Dual efficacy

Naltrexone is effective for both alcohol and opioid use disorders, making it a versatile option for individuals with polysubstance use issues.

Comprehensive treatment plans

Naltrexone is most effective when integrated into a holistic treatment approach tailored to your needs. This approach often includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other treatments that help address the psychological aspects of addiction.

Your Magnolia Medical Group provider can also help you build healthy habits, such as a nutritious diet, manage stress, and create a supportive environment that aims at long-term recovery.

Recovery is possible, and Naltrexone could be the key to a healthier, substance-free future. Call the office or request an appointment online to schedule a visit at Magnolia Medical Group today.