Naltrexone

Naltrexone is used to prevent addiction of certain drugs. It is used as part of a complete treatment program for drug abuse. Do not use it if you are currently using opiates, including methadone. It's active component Naltrexone belongs to class of opiate antagonists. It works in the brain preventing opiate effects and decreasing desire to take opiates. Also Naltrexone (Revia) is used in treatment of alcohol abuse. Dosage and directions Take Naltrexone orally 50 mg once a day with or without food or as prescribed by your doctor. If you take Naltrexone as a part of a program where a health care professional will watch you your doctor may increase a higher dose 100-150 mg to be taken every 2-3 days. Do not use any opiates for at least 7 days before starting Naltrexone (Revia).

Precautions
Tell your doctor before taking the medication if you are allergic to it, or if you have any other allergies. Consult with you doctor if you have: taken any type of opioid drugs in the last 7 to 10 days, current opioid dependence, active liver disease or liver failure. Discuss with your doctor if you had in your medical history kidney disease or liver problems. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Contraindications
Hypersensitive, allergic reaction to Revia, acute hepatitis, liver failure. You must be narcotic free before starting Naltrexone.

Possible side effects
Dizziness, nausea, headache, anxiety, tiredness, and trouble sleeping may occur. In a small number of people, mild opiate withdrawal symptoms may occur, including abdominal cramps, muscle aches, bone o joint pain, restlessness and runny nose. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.