Can Naltrexone Make You Sick If You Drink Alcohol On It?

Naltrexone is a medication primarily used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence. It works by blocking the effects of opioids and alcohol in the brain, reducing the cravings for these substances. When used as directed, naltrexone should not make you feel sick if you drink alcohol. However, it is important to understand how naltrexone works and follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully.

Today I wanted to clarify a question people often have about naltrexone for alcohol use disorder, which is:

"Can naltrexone make you sick if you drink alcohol on it?"

This is a common misunderstanding with how naltrexone works, and people often confuse it with Antabuse. If someone drinks on Antabuse it's very dangerous and they can get VERY ill...however according to research, that is not true for naltrexone.

Antabuse and naltrexone are completely different medications.

In fact, there have been countless research studies demonstrating that if someone drinks on naltrexone, it can actually help them 1️⃣ drink less alcohol and 2️⃣ have fewer alcohol cravings.

So the short answer is no, for most people, naltrexone will not make them sick if they drink on it.

But let's explore this a little further - here's what you should know:

1. Potential side effects: While naltrexone itself doesn't cause sickness when combined with alcohol, some people may experience side effects from naltrexone alone. Common side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. These side effects are generally mild and tend to diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication. You can work with your healthcare provider on dosing the naltrexone so you can reduce any side effects that may occur, and check out this video for more information on side effects. 👇
   
    

2. Naltrexone's effectiveness: Naltrexone can help reduce alcohol cravings and the pleasure associated with drinking, which may make it easier for some people to cut down on or quit drinking. However, it doesn't directly prevent alcohol from entering your system or cause immediate physical discomfort if you drink while taking it.

3. Compliance with treatment: It's crucial to take naltrexone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Following the Sinclair Method, this typically involves taking it about one hour before consuming alcohol. Missing doses or not following the recommended dosage can reduce its effectiveness.

4. Medical supervision: It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting naltrexone treatment for alcohol dependence. They can assess your specific situation and provide guidance on whether naltrexone is an appropriate treatment option for you. They can also discuss potential interactions with other medications you may be taking. When you join Thrive's program, we can refer you to a telemedicine doctor who specializes in naltrexone for alcohol use disorder.

In summary, naltrexone can help reduce alcohol cravings and the pleasure associated with drinking, but it doesn't make you sick if you consume alcohol while taking it. However, it's important to take naltrexone as directed, be aware of potential side effects, and exercise caution when drinking alcohol while on this medication. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for the safest and most effective treatment.

I hope this helps you understand a bit more about naltrexone and what you can expect on this medicine.

If you're ready to get started on The Sinclair Method, or even if you've been on the method and would like to plug into a program for daily support, personalized guidance and resources, you can learn more about The Alcohol Freedom Program here! 😎 

Medical Disclaimer: The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this platform.