Naltrexone - Oral

Naltrexone is used to help individuals who are dependent on opioids (strong painkillers) to overcome their addiction.

This medicine is also used as an aid in the management of alcohol dependence. This medicine helps establish self-motivation in maintaining abstinence from alcohol.

Naltrexone is meant to be used as part of a total alcohol or drug addiction care programme that includes counselling and social support.

Take Naltrexone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.

You may need to stop using opioids for at least 7 to 10 days before starting Naltrexone.

Naltrexone must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• dependent on opioids
• positive urine test for opioids
• severe liver disease

as Naltrexone may not be suitable for you.

Do not take Naltrexone with opioids (strong painkillers), such as morphine.

Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• mild to moderate liver disease
• kidney disease

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you are going to have an operation, including minor surgery and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Naltrexone.

Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.

• Urine test to check for the presence of opioids must be done before treatment to know if this medicine is suited for you to take.
• Routine tests (e.g. liver function tests) may be done before and while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
• Regular monitoring for signs of depression may also be needed.

What lifestyle changes should I make to manage my dependence on alcohol?

Eat a healthy diet and manage your stress through meditation and exercise. Avoid temptations of drinking alcohol by removing all alcohol in your home and office and distancing yourself from people who drink. Keep away from places and situations that encourage drinking. Get help from friends and family to support you in your goal of abstaining from alcohol. Continue to attend counselling while taking this medicine to reach your goal.

Naltrexone may cause dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.

Other side effects include any of the following: abdominal pain, decreased appetite, constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, headache, joint or muscle pain, and rash.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

• slow or shallow breathing, very pale or clammy skin, bluish lips
• being too depressed, having thoughts of self-harm

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Do not take Naltrexone with opioids (strong painkillers), such as morphine.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:

• disulfiram (other medicine used for alcohol dependence)
• thioridazine (medicine for mood disorders)

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Naloxone.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Avoid alcohol.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.