naltrexone

Naltrexone

Naltrexone, sold under the brand name Revia among others, is a medication primarily used to manage alcohol use and opioid use disorders by reducing cravings and feelings of euphoria associated with substance use disorder. It has also been found to be effective for the treatment of other addictions and may be used for them off-label. The combination naltrexone/bupropion is used to treat obesity. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist and works by blocking the effects of opioids, including both opioid drugs as well as opioids naturally produced in the brain. It is taken orally or by injection into a muscle. Effects begin within 30 minutes, though a decreased desire for opioids may take a few weeks to occur. Side effects may include trouble sleeping, anxiety, nausea, and headaches. In those still on opioids, opioid withdrawal may occur. Use is not recommended in people with liver failure. It is unclear if use is safe during pregnancy. Naltrexone was first made in 1965 and was approved for medical use in the United States in 1984. It is on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. In 2021, it was the 254th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 1 million prescriptions.