Naltrexone Therapy in Florida – Naltrexone is a safe and effective medication for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) that can only be administered after opioid withdrawal takes place as part of a comprehensive Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Naltrexone treatment program. . Generally used to prevent relapse after opioid detoxification, it prevents opioids like heroin and codeine from having euphoric and sedative effects. A recovering addict is less likely to use again if they know the drug won’t deliver any pleasurable sensation.
It is an extended-release medicine administered by injection. Because of certain risks, to qualify for addiction recovery treatment with naltrexone, candidates must undergo a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) assessment. Naltrexone is not recommended for anyone younger than 18 or patients with other significant health problems.
Naltrexone in Medication-Assisted Treatment
Naltrexone (VIVITROL) blocks the effects of opioids quickly and completely. It generally cannot be administered unless the patient is already completely free of opioids. Someone who has used drugs within seven to 14 days and still has a physical dependence may suffer sudden and severe withdrawal symptoms upon receiving an injection. Naltrexone is given as a shot in the muscles of the buttocks once a month.
You must let your healthcare provider know about any medications you are taking, prescription or otherwise, including vitamins and supplements. To make sure you are completely detoxed before an injection of naltrexone, your health care provider may give you what’s called a “challenge test” – a very small injection of naloxone (NARCAN) to see if you suffer any withdrawal symptoms. If you do, you’ll be given more time to clear any opioid-containing substances, and then the test may be repeated.
Possible Side Effects of Naltrexone
Like any prescribed medicine, some people may experience side effects when using naltrexone including:
- Upset stomach or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Sleep problems/tiredness
- Joint or muscle pain
Naltrexone for Opioid Use Disorder
Patients on naltrexone should not drink alcohol or use any opioids or street drugs. They should discuss all other medications they are taking with their healthcare provider. Since naltrexone is such an effective opioid blocker, patients who abruptly stop using it or resume using illicit drugs may have developed a lower tolerance to opioids. As a result, using the same, or even lower, amounts of opioids as in the past might result in a life-threatening overdose.
Florida Treatment Services
is a Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program offering low-cost onsite medication dispensation at convenient locations throughout Central Florida with no wait times and a friendly, experienced, professional staff. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, call 407-783-6273 today.