Patients with opioid use disorder who have quit using opioids can stay drug-free and continue their treatment with the support of naltrexone. Alcohol use disorder is also treated with it. Addiction cannot be cured by the medication. It is utilized in conjunction with other treatments that your healthcare physician has prescribed, such as therapy and going to support group meetings.

An opioid is not naltrexone. It functions by preventing opioids from having their euphoric and rewarding effects, which are what lead you to want to use them. Additionally, it might prevent the pleasant and euphoric feeling that could lead to a want to drink. It won't cause physical or mental dependence or have any effects similar to those of opioids. It won't stop you from getting intoxicated when using painkillers or alcohol.

After stopping opioids for a while, patients using naltrexone will experience withdrawal symptoms. Treatment with naltrexone begins after you have stopped using opioids for a while. The type of opioid you took, how much you took, and how long you took it could all affect how long this takes. If you believe you are still experiencing withdrawal symptoms, make sure to let your doctor know before you begin taking this medication.