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Quitting drinking or cutting back on alcohol can feel overwhelming, but what if there was a pill to help? Enter naltrexone—a medication designed to reduce alcohol cravings and help you regain control over your drinking habits. In this post, we’ll explore how naltrexone works, its benefits, and whether it might be right for you.
What Is Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a prescription medication approved by the FDA to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD). Unlike medications that make you sick if you drink alcohol, naltrexone works by blocking the brain’s reward system when you drink. This reduces the “reward” sensation associated with alcohol, making it easier to drink less or quit altogether.
Naltrexone is available in two main forms:
- Oral Tablets: Typically prescribed as a 50mg daily dose.
- Extended-Release Injection (Vivitrol): Administered once a month by a healthcare provider.
How Naltrexone Helps with Alcohol Use Disorder
When you drink alcohol, your brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. For individuals with AUD, this dopamine release can reinforce the cycle of drinking, making it difficult to stop. Naltrexone works by:
- Blocking Opioid Receptors: This prevents the release of dopamine when drinking, reducing the positive reinforcement.
- Reducing Cravings: Many people report fewer urges to drink after starting naltrexone.
Studies have shown that individuals who use naltrexone in combination with counseling or therapy are more likely to reduce or quit drinking than those who use therapy alone (Kranzler & Soyka, 2018).
Who Can Use Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is suitable for individuals who want to reduce their drinking or quit entirely. However, it’s not recommended for:
- People who are currently using opioids.
- Those with severe liver issues.
- Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you’re unsure whether naltrexone is right for you, consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
How to Get Naltrexone
Naltrexone is a prescription medication, so you’ll need to speak with a healthcare provider to obtain it. You can:
- Visit a local doctor or addiction specialist.
- Get Naltrexone Online: Many telehealth platforms offer online consultations and prescriptions for naltrexone, making it more accessible.
At Choose Your Horizon, we make it simple to access naltrexone and other treatment options. Start by completing our online assessment to see if naltrexone is right for you.
Final Thoughts
Naltrexone isn’t a magic pill, but it’s a powerful tool that can help you reduce or quit drinking when combined with the right support. Whether you’re looking to cut back for health reasons or quit drinking entirely, naltrexone can make the journey less daunting.
Take the first step today. Complete our online assessment to explore how naltrexone and our tailored treatment plans can support your goals.
