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Learn what to avoid when taking naltrexone for opioid addiction recovery and alcohol use disorder treatment. If you or someone you know struggles with addiction to opioids or alcohol, then you may be familiar with the medication Naltrexone.
Anthony Saracino
Editorial Contributor, Faith Recovery Center
Learn what to avoid when taking naltrexone for opioid addiction recovery and alcohol use disorder treatment. If you or someone you know struggles with addiction to opioids or alcohol, then you may be familiar with the medication Naltrexone.
Learn what to avoid when taking naltrexone for opioid addiction recovery and alcohol use disorder treatment.
If you or someone you know struggles with addiction to opioids or alcohol, then you may be familiar with the medication Naltrexone. Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication that works by blocking the effects of opioids and is used to treat substance use disorders. It is particularly effective for individuals with opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. As a long-acting opioid antagonist, naltrexone treatment can help those struggling with addiction by preventing them from experiencing the high feeling associated with opioid use.
One of the ways naltrexone works is that these drugs block the effects of opioids, making it more challenging for individuals to continue using these substances. This can be especially helpful for family members who are supporting their loved ones through the recovery process. In addition to treating opioid use disorder, naltrexone is also used to treat alcohol use disorder by reducing the urge to drink alcohol.
Before starting naltrexone treatment, patients may undergo a naloxone challenge test to ensure they are not currently using opioids, as this could cause severe opioid withdrawal symptoms. It is essential to be honest with your healthcare provider about your substance use history to avoid potential complications.
As with any medication, there are potential side effects and interactions with naltrexone. Some common side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. It is essential to discuss any medications you are currently taking with your healthcare provider to avoid possible interactions with naltrexone.
In this blog post, we will explore what to avoid when taking Naltrexone to ensure your safety and success in recovery.
When taking Naltrexone, it is essential to avoid the use of any opioids. Naltrexone works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain, but this also means that if you take opioids while on Naltrexone, you will not feel the desired effects of the medication as these drugs block the high feeling you may feel. This can lead to dangerous situations where someone may take more and more opioids attempting to achieve the desired effect, leading to overdose and other negative outcomes.
Examples of opioids include:
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It is also crucial to watch for any over-the-counter medications that may contain opioids, such as cough medicine or anti-diarrheal medication. Some of these medications may not be labeled explicitly as containing opioids, so it is best to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any new medication. Taking opioids while on Naltrexone can be dangerous and could lead to unexpected side effects.
As with opioids, Naltrexone also reduces the cravings for alcohol. However, it is essential to avoid consuming any alcohol while taking Naltrexone. This medication can cause intense, uncomfortable side effects if alcohol is consumed, including nausea, confusion, and sedation. These side effects can also be dangerous and could lead to accidents or injuries.
Central nervous system (CNS) depressants include medications like benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and sleep aids. Combining these medications with Naltrexone can be dangerous as both medications can cause sedation and drowsiness. This combination may cause someone to become overly intoxicated or have trouble breathing, which can lead to significant health problems.
Finally, it is essential to avoid using any illicit drugs while taking Naltrexone. While it may seem obvious, some individuals in recovery may be tempted to use other substances to deal with cravings or withdrawal.
However, mixing these drugs with Naltrexone can lead to several dangerous outcomes, including overdose and other negative health effects.
Opioid and alcohol addiction can be difficult to overcome, especially without the right support and guidance. At Faith Recovery Center in Beverly Hills, California, we provide comprehensive treatment plans tailored to meet your unique needs. Our experienced team of professionals can help you or a loved one through every step of the recovery process from detox to long-term sobriety.
Support groups also play a crucial role in the recovery process, as they provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and learn from others. Combining naltrexone treatment with support groups can improve the chances of long-term recovery.
Contact us today for more information on our effective opioid and alcohol addiction treatment programs. We look forward to helping you get the treatment you need for a successful recovery.
Clinical review
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Jason Giles, M.D.
Physician · Addiction medicine & medical detox, Faith Recovery Center
Last reviewed July 13, 2026
Educational content only — not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individual experiences vary. For treatment questions, speak with our admissions team.
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Educational content contributor covering addiction treatment, recovery, and private rehab options for families researching care at Faith Recovery Center in Beverly Hills.
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