Frequently Asked Questions about Depade Naltrexone
What is Depade (Naltrexone)?
Naltrexone is in a class of medications called opiate antagonists.
Why is this used?
Depade (Naltrexone) is used to help people who have stopped drinking alcohol and using street drugs continue to treat alcoholism.
How does naltrexone work?
It works by decreasing the desire for alcohol and blocking the effects of opioid medications and opioid street drugs.
How long does it take to work?
Naltrexone starts working shortly after taking the first dose. It helps patients remain sober and avoid relapse to alcohol use also occur early.
How should I use this medicine?
Naltrexone comes as a tablet. You can take it by mouth either at home or under supervision in a clinic. When you take this drug at home, you can take once a day with or without food. When it is taken in a clinic or treatment center, it may be taken once a day, once every other day, once every third day, or once every day except Sunday. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain if you do not understand. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Can I take other medications with naltrexone?
There are some drugs that may have adverse impact if used together. Therefore you need caution while using this drug and other drugs concomitantly.
The safety and efficacy of concomitant use of this medicine and disulfiram is unidentified, and the simultaneous use of two potentially hepatotoxic medications is not ordinarily suggested unless the probable benefits overshadow the potential risks. Naltrexone and thioridazine have caused lethargy and somnolence.
Patients should not take opioid containing medicines, such as cough and cold preparations, antidiarrheal preparations, and opioid analgesics while using this medication.
In an emergency situation when opioid analgesia must be administered to a patient receiving this drug, the amount of opioid required may be greater than usual, and the resulting respiratory depression may be deeper and more prolonged.
Do I need other treatment for alcoholism with naltrexone?
No, this drug is only a part of a program of treatment for alcoholism including counseling help with associated psychological and social problems and participation in self-help groups. In both studies where this medicine was shown to be effective, it was combined with treatment from professional psychotherapists.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. Do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, rather skip the missed dose and carry on your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose.