How effective is naltrexone for alcoholism?
Naltrexone is a prescription drug used to combat alcoholism. He is an antagonist of an opioid receptor who works on the treatment of individuals addicted to alcohol. The drug is also effective in the treatment of opioid dependence. Naltrexone for alcoholism is administered by a healthcare worker or oral tablet to outpatient patients. Research on the use of naltrexone for alcoholism concludes that it is an effective discouraging means of desires with alcohol.
A few studies published in 1992 on the effectiveness of the use of naltrexone for alcoholism provided evidence of the effectiveness of the drug. Later studies continued to support these results. Naltrexone, when used correctly, reduces the risk of relapse and the severity of the relapses that occur. In addition, drugs have proved effective with the addition of psychotherapy or meeting addiction meetings. It is assumed that its efficacy is based on its impact on the brain areas that control the risk-taking and behavior in finding pleasure.
Once PAcient stabilized, it is usually prescribed one tablet a day. The side effects of naltrexone for alcoholism include nausea and vomiting. These side effects usually disappear within a few days after the start of the drug. In addition, it is possible to increase the level of the liver enzyme. Periodic blood tests can check such an increase and doses can be treated to reduce them.
Injection Naltrexone is used for clients who cannot be trusted to follow tablets of naltrexone. It is also used in patients who have difficulty swallowing or do not want to be tied to a daily medicine. Monthly intramuscular injection eliminates the need for tablets. This is a suitable treatment method, although this includes a monthly visit to the healthcare professional for injection.
Although it is not necessary to combine out Outpatient treatment by using naltrexone for alcoholism, studies have shown that long -term success is more likely when it isCombined with at least 16 weeks of outpatient consulting treatment. The proposed outpatient treatment methods include individual counseling, group counseling and 12-step meetings. Naltrexone for alcoholism is a safe, relatively easy method used to combat the disease. As with other addiction treatments, however, an alcoholic must want to stop drinking to work in the long term.