Clinical Overview
Naltrexone Hydrochloride is a pure, long-acting competitive opioid receptor antagonist on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It competitively binds to mu, kappa, and delta opioid receptors in the brain, completely blocking the subjective euphoric and rewarding effects of exogenous opioids and diminishing alcohol craving by blocking endogenous opioid release triggered by alcohol consumption. Indicated for the treatment of alcohol dependence and prevention of relapse in opioid dependence following comprehensive detoxification.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Take orally once daily with water, with or without meals. Patients MUST be completely opioid-free for at least 7 to 10 days (verified by naloxone challenge or urine drug screen) prior to starting naltrexone to avoid precipitating life-threatening acute opioid withdrawal.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, abdominal cramps, arthralgia. Rare/Severe: Hepatotoxicity (dose-dependent hepatocellular injury), precipitated acute opioid withdrawal syndrome, depression, and fatal opioid overdose if patient attempts to overcome receptor blockade.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Black box warning: Precipitated opioid withdrawal can be severe and life-threatening; opioid-free interval of 7-10 days is mandatory. Patients must carry medical identification stating they are on naltrexone. Monitor liver enzymes. Warn patients that attempts to override blockade with large doses of opioids can cause fatal respiratory arrest.
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a registered medical practitioner or qualified pharmacist before initiating, modifying, or substituting any medication regimen.