Vital Aspects of Naltrexone Medication to Ponder Seriously
The principal use of this medication is to treat alcohol dependence and opioid addictions in patients who have stopped taking alcohol or opioids for 7-10 days. There are several other uses of Naltrexone for sexual dysfunction, tobacco study, Crohn’s disease, self-injurious actions, study in overweight and obese patients, and autism. It is sold under the trade names Revia and Depade.
Precautions
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use. Let your doctor know about your medical history, such as, liver disease, any alcohol or drug use, any allergies. This medication blocks the effects of narcotics and heroin. But, large doses of heroin or narcotics can undo this block and may bring about serious injury, coma and even death. Ensure you understand completely the risks and benefits of using this medication. Follow your doctor’s instructions properly. This medication should be used only if considered necessary during pregnancy. Talk about the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not clear if this medication passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
A total of 325 drugs (1633 brand and generic names) have been recognized to interact with naltrexone. Cough medication (e.g., dextromethorphan), disulfiram, diarrhea medication (e.g., diphenoxylate), narcotic medication (e.g., codeine, hydrocodone, propoxyphene), thioridazine may have serious drug interactaction with Naltrexone. The following are some common medications which may interact with Naltrexone.
- Lipitor (atorvastatin)
- Lunesta (eszopiclone)
- Ambien (zolpidem)
- Celexa (citalopram)
- Depakote (divalproex sodium)
- Klonopin (clonazepam)
- Lamictal (lamotrigine)
- Lexapro (escitalopram)
- Lidoderm (lidocaine topical)
- Nexium (esomeprazole)
Contraindications
Revia Naltrexone is contraindicated in:
- Any individual with acute hepatitis or liver failure.
- Patients currently dependent on opioids.
- Patients receiving opioid analgesics.
- Patients in acute opioid withdrawal.
- Any individual who has failed the naloxone challenge test or who has a positive urine screen for opioids.
- Any individual with a history of sensitivity to REVIA or any other components of this product. It is not known if there is any cross-sensitivity with naloxone or the phenanthrene containing opioids.
Side Effects
Some people have reported some minor as well as major side effects. So it can be told that Revia Naltrexonehas also adverse effects.The following are some common side effects which can be associated with this drug: headache; nausea; nervousness; increased energy; increased thirst; irritability; joint and muscle pain; anxiety; appetite loss; chills; constipation; delayed ejaculation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; feeling down; low energy; sleeplessness; stomach pain/cramps; vomiting. Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become worse.
Storage
Store at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.