When you take Naltrexone, a medication used to block opioid receptors and reduce cravings for alcohol or opioids. It's not a cure, but a tool—often used alongside counseling—to help people stay off drugs or drink less. Also known as Vivitrol when given as a monthly shot, it works by sitting on the brain’s opioid receptors so heroin, oxycodone, or even alcohol can’t trigger the usual high. That’s why it’s used in addiction recovery programs across the U.S. and Europe.
But Naltrexone isn’t harmless. The most common side effects include nausea, especially in the first week, headaches, dizziness, and trouble sleeping. Some people feel tired or anxious. These usually fade after a few days, but if they stick around, talk to your doctor. More serious reactions—like liver damage, severe depression, or thoughts of self-harm—are rare but real. If you’ve ever had liver problems, your doctor will check your enzymes before starting. And you must be completely off opioids for at least 7–10 days before taking Naltrexone. If you’re not, it can trigger sudden, dangerous withdrawal.
Naltrexone doesn’t just affect your brain—it can mess with your body too. People on Naltrexone report reduced appetite, which some find helpful for weight loss, but others struggle with feeling constantly hungry or low on energy. It can also cause muscle or joint pain, especially if you’re active. And if you’re using it for alcohol dependence, you might notice your tolerance dropping fast. One drink might hit harder than it used to. That’s the drug working—but it can be unsettling if you’re not prepared.
There’s also the emotional side. Some users say they feel emotionally flat—less joy, less motivation—even when they’re sober. It’s not depression, exactly, but it’s close enough to worry. If you’ve ever struggled with mood disorders, your doctor should monitor you closely. Naltrexone doesn’t treat anxiety or trauma, and if those are driving your substance use, you’ll need more than just a pill.
And here’s something most people don’t tell you: Naltrexone doesn’t work for everyone. Studies show it helps about 1 in 3 people stay off alcohol long-term. For others, the side effects outweigh the benefits. That’s why it’s not a first-line treatment for everyone. It’s a tool for those who’ve tried other paths and still need a blocker. If you’re considering it, ask your doctor about alternatives like acamprosate or nalmefene. And if you’re switching from another medication, know that your body might react differently—especially if you’ve been on methadone or buprenorphine before.
What you’ll find below are real stories and science-backed guides on how Naltrexone interacts with other drugs, how to handle its side effects without quitting, what to do if you miss a dose, and how it compares to other treatments for addiction. You’ll also see how it affects sleep, mood, and even liver function over time. No fluff. No marketing. Just what you need to know to decide if Naltrexone is right for you—or if it’s time to try something else.
Revia (naltrexone) helps treat alcohol and opioid dependence by blocking cravings and effects. Learn safe dosage, common side effects, dangerous drug interactions, and where to get a verified prescription online.
