What Are the Side Effects of Naltrexone?
If you're considering naltrexone as a tool to support your goals with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), it's important to have a clear, honest picture of the entire experience - including potential side effects.
Like any effective medication, naltrexone can cause side effects. The good news is that for most people, these are mild and tend to fade as your body adjusts to the medication.
This article provides a straightforward guide to the common and rare side effects of naltrexone, so you know exactly what to expect.
How Naltrexone Works
Before we dive into side effects, it's helpful to know what naltrexone does. When used for AUD, naltrexone works by binding to certain receptors in your brain. It is believed to reduce alcohol cravings and block the rewarding, euphoric feeling that many people get from drinking.
This action is what makes it a powerful tool, but it's also the reason some people may experience side effects as their brain chemistry adjusts.
Common, Mild Side Effects (Usually Temporary)
Most side effects of naltrexone are mild and most common during the first few days or weeks of treatment. Your body just needs time to get used to the medication.
The most frequently reported side effects include:
- Nausea: This is the most common side effect. It can range from a mild, queasy feeling to vomiting, and often occurs shortly after taking your dose.
- Headache: A dull, persistent headache is sometimes reported.
- Dizziness or Fatigue: You might feel unusually tired, drowsy, or a bit "out of it" when you first start.
- Sleep Issues: Some people report having trouble falling asleep (insomnia) or having vivid, unusual dreams.
- Decreased Appetite: You may not feel as hungry as usual.
- Anxiety or Nervousness: A temporary feeling of restlessness or anxiety can occur.
Tips for Managing Mild Side Effects
The best course of action is to talk to your provider, but here are some common strategies:
- For Nausea: Try taking your naltrexone dose with a small meal or a snack. Avoid taking it on an empty stomach.
- For Headaches: A simple over-the-counter pain reliever (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen) may help, but check with your doctor first to ensure it's safe for you.
- For Fatigue: Try taking your dose in the evening or at bedtime.
- For Insomnia: If the medication seems to be keeping you awake, try taking it in the morning.
Always let your medical provider know about any side effects you're experiencing. They can offer guidance and, if necessary, adjust your treatment plan.
Rare But Serious Side Effects
While most side effects are mild, it's crucial to be aware of the rare but serious risks. You should contact your medical provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
1. Liver-Related Issues
Naltrexone is processed by your liver. In rare cases, particularly at doses much higher than what's normally prescribed for AUD, it has been associated with liver stress or damage.
Contact your doctor right away if you notice:
- Persistent pain in your upper stomach area
- Yellowing of your eyes or skin (jaundice)
- Unusual dark urine
- Excessive or unusual tiredness
This is why it's so important to be honest with your provider about your full medical history, including any pre-existing liver conditions, before you start naltrexone.
2. Allergic Reaction
As with any medication, a severe allergic reaction is possible, though very rare.
Seek emergency medical help (call 911) if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of your face, lips, or tongue
- A severe skin rash or hives
3. Mood Changes
Because naltrexone works in the brain, it can sometimes cause changes in mood.
Contact your provider if you experience:
- New or worsening feelings of depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Severe anxiety or hallucinations
Always Talk to Your Provider
This guide is for informational purposes, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The most important part of your naltrexone treatment is the open, honest relationship you have with your healthcare provider.
- Before you start: Give them your complete medical history.
- While you're taking it: Tell them about everything you're feeling, even if it seems minor.
Naltrexone is a safe and effective medication for most people, and managing side effects is a normal part of the process. Your provider's job is to work with you to find a solution that makes your treatment as comfortable and successful as possible.
If you are a SobrietyMeds customer and have a question about side effects, log in to your Patient Portal and talk to your provider via the Medical Chat.
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