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Generic Name: naltrexone

A drugs used in alcohol dependence - It blocks the 'high' that these substances can give you

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What is this medicine?

NALTREXONE (nal TREX one) helps you to remain free of your dependence on opiate drugs or alcohol. It blocks the 'high' that these substances can give you. This medicine is combined with counseling and support groups.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

if you have used drugs or alcohol within 7 to 10 days
kidney disease
liver disease, including hepatitis
an unusual or allergic reaction to naltrexone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not take this medicine within 7 to 10 days of taking any opioid drugs. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose and remember on the same day, take the missed dose. If you do not remember until the next day, ask your doctor or health care professional about rescheduling your doses. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

any prescription or street opioid drug like codiene, heroin, methadone

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional regularly.

Never try to overcome this medicine by taking large amounts of opioid drugs. You may cause an overdose, coma and death.

Tell all of your doctors and health care providers that you are taking this medicine. For emergencies, carry a medication card. Or, wear a medical identification bracelet or chain to say that you take this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

breathing problems
changes in vision, hearing
confusion
dark urine
depressed, thoughts of suicide
diarrhea with vomiting
fast, irregular heart beat
hallucination, loss of contact with reality
right upper belly pain
unusually weak or tired
white bowel movements
yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

aches, pains
change in sex drive or performance
feeling anxious, dizzy, restless, tearful
headache
loss of appetite, nausea
runny nose, sinus problems, sneezing
stomach cramps
trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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