Naltrexone hydrochloride

Indications & Dose:

Adjunct to prevent relapse in formerly opioiddependent patients (who have remained opioidfree for at least 7–10 days) (initiated under specialist supervision) 

• BY MOUTH

Adult: Initially 25 mg daily, then increased to 50 mg daily, total weekly dosemay be divided and given on 3 days of the week for improved compliance (e.g. 100mg on Monday and Wednesday, and 150mg on Friday); maximum 350 mg per week Adjunct to prevent relapse in formerly alcoholdependent patients (initiated under specialist supervision)

• BY MOUTH

Adult: 25 mg once daily on the first day, then increased if tolerated to 50 mg daily

Contraindications:

Current use of opioid analgesics, opioid dependency acute opioid withdrawal, positive urine screen for opioids failed naloxone test, acute hepatitis, liver failure

Side Effects:

CNS: Anxiety, attempted suicide, chills, confusion, depression, difficulty sleeping, disorientation, dizziness, fatigue, feeling down, hallucinations, headache, irritability, nervousness, nightmares, paranoia, restlessness

CV: Edema, increased blood pressure, non-specific

ECG changes, palpitations, phlebitis, tachycardia

EENT: Blurted vision, clogged ears, excess mucus or phlegm, itching, nasal congestion, nose bleeds, photophobia, rhinorrhea, sinus trouble, sneezing, sore throat, tinnitus

GI: Abdominal pain, constipation, cramps; diarrhea,excessive gas, hemorrhoids, hepatotoxicity, increased thirst, loss of appetite, nausea, ulcer, vomiting

GU: Delayed ejaculation; decreased potency, discomfort during urination; increased, decreased sexual interest; increased urinary frequency

MS: Joint, muscle pain; painful shoulders, legs, or knees

RESP: Cough, heavy breathing, hoarseness, shortness of breath

SKIN: Acne-alopecia, athlete’s foot, cold sores, oily skin, pruritus, skin rash. 

Cautions:

Precautions:

Active liver disease, children 

Interaction:

Warnings:

Adverse Effects:

Lactations:

Pregnancy category C

Special Precautions:

Counselling:

Side Effects Or Adverse Reactions:

Patient And Carer Advice: