Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication for the prevention of relapses in alcohol or drug abuse. This drug works by blocking opiate receptors in your brain, which reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is an opiate antagonist that affects the same receptors as heroin, codeine, fentanyl, and other opioids. In this article, we have briefly discussed how naltrexone works on your brain.
What is Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a life-saving craving blocker. It aids in reducing the cravings for alcohol and opioids. Naltrexone blocks the euphoric effects of these substances, which can help people resist using them. Moreover, naltrexone comes as a pill or an injection.
Who Can Use Naltrexone?
- Have a high risk for relapse. It may include alcohol use disorder, opioid dependence, or both
- Are new to recovery and have not received treatment yet. Naltrexone is often given before beginning therapy that addresses underlying issues like mental health disorders, trauma, or other substance use disorders
- Are at risk for drug overdose and death, such as people with an opioid use disorder who have been recently released from a correctional facility or detoxification program. Naltrexone can be used before starting maintenance treatment (such as methadone) to reduce the chance of relapse during this critical period following release.
- Have stopped drinking or using opioids but still have strong cravings.
- Are undergoing alcohol or opioid detoxification and need help to avoid relapse.
Although naltrexone is not a cure for addiction, it can help you stay in treatment and reduce your chances of relapse. It can also prevent overdose in people with opioid use disorder.
How Does Naltrexone Work on Your Brain?
The way naltrexone works on your brain are by blocking the effects of alcohol and opioids. When you take naltrexone, it blocks the receptors in your brain that make you feel good when you drink or use opioids. It can help reduce cravings for these substances and may help you resist using them. Naltrexone does not get you “high” or make you feel good. It just blocks the effects of alcohol and opioids, so you don’t feel them as much.
Naltrexone is a long-acting medication, which means it stays in your system for a while after you take it. The way naltrexone works on your brain may last for up to 28 days after you stop taking it.
To Conclude
This was a brief overview of how naltrexone works on your brain. Thus, naltrexone can be a helpful tool in addiction treatment and recovery. To know more about naltrexone, you can always read, watch videos, or listen to naltrexone podcasts. It is also always best to talk to your doctor or treatment provider for more information.
