Naltrexone Hcl

Naltrexone Hcl — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is mainly used to support people recovering from opioid or alcohol dependence.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Maintaining opioid abstinence after detoxification
• Reducing craving and relapse in alcohol dependence
• Supporting long-term recovery programs along with counselling

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks opioid receptors in the brain so opioids no longer give a pleasurable effect
• Reduces the urge and reward feeling linked to alcohol drinking
• Helps the person stay motivated to continue treatment and avoid relapse

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for treating acute opioid withdrawal symptoms
• Not a painkiller and does not relieve pain
• Not used in patients who are currently taking opioid medicines
• Not a stand-alone cure; works best with counselling and support programs

How to Use Naltrexone Hcl

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food; taking with food may reduce nausea
• Do not start this medicine until you have been opioid-free for the period advised by your doctor, usually at least 7-10 days
• Do not stop suddenly without talking to your doctor
• Continue counselling or support programs alongside this medicine

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss several doses, consult your doctor before restarting

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Keep in the original container until it is time to take it

Naltrexone Hcl — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Tiredness or low energy
• Trouble sleeping
• Joint or muscle pain

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Loss of appetite
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Increased thirst
• Skin rash

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe stomach pain
• Signs of opioid withdrawal if opioids were used recently (sweating, cramps, agitation)
• Suicidal thoughts or severe mood changes
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Naltrexone Hcl — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are currently using opioid-containing medicines or drugs
• Are in acute opioid withdrawal
• Have severe liver disease or acute hepatitis
• Are allergic to naltrexone or any ingredient in the tablet

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any liver or kidney disease
• Have recently used opioids, even a small amount
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have depression or a history of suicidal thoughts
• Need surgery or emergency pain treatment in the near future

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Opioid painkillers or cough syrups containing opioids
• Other medicines that affect the liver
• Sedatives or medicines causing drowsiness, when combined may increase side effects
• Always tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you use

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

Alcohol should be avoided or limited as advised by your doctor, especially if used for alcohol dependence treatment.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

Duration varies by patient and is decided by the doctor based on response and recovery progress.

Will this medicine cause withdrawal symptoms?

• If opioids are still in your system when you start, it can trigger sudden withdrawal, so timing is important and should be guided by your doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.