A little-known prescription pill is helping Americans drink less alcohol
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Recent studies continue to support a decades-old drug as an alternative means of reducing alcohol consumption.
The prescription opioid pill, called naltrexone, was first approved by the FDA to treat opioid dependence in 1984. A decade later, it was approved for alcohol use disorder.
In addition to the daily pill version, naltrexone is also available as a monthly injectable therapy, which was approved for alcohol use disorder in 2006 and opioid use disorder in 2010.
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how it works
Naltrexone works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain. According to experts, for those dependent on opioids, it blocks the “euphoric” effects of drugs and also curbs alcohol cravings.
The prescription opioid pill, called naltrexone, was first approved by the FDA to treat opioid dependence in 1984. A decade later, it was approved for alcohol use disorder. (iStock)
“Naltrexone can be used to help reduce alcohol cravings and reduce the pleasurable effects of alcohol ingestion, which can help those prone to binge drinking consume less volume,” Dr. David Campbell, clinical director and program director at Recover Together, an addiction and behavioral health treatment center in Bend, Oregon, told News Digital.
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The medication is useful for people who experience strong cravings, who often drink excessively once they start, or drink primarily because of a reward or relief rather than a habit, according to Campbell.
“Naltrexone affects the brain’s reward center, which blocks the rewarding effects of alcohol.”
Jessica Steinman, clinical director of No Matter What Recovery in Los Angeles, calls naltrexone “an incredibly useful and life-saving tool” for people struggling with alcohol use disorder.
“In our society today, many people seek help with medications due to overconsumption of certain things or behaviors, including food, cigarettes and now alcohol,” he told News Digital.
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“Naltrexone affects the brain’s reward center, which blocks the rewarding effects of alcohol and minimizes cravings. It may help tell the brain that you don’t want to drink alcohol.”
The medication may also help if someone has a “healthy” relationship with alcohol and is looking to reduce their drinking behaviors, Steinman added.
“We do not suggest moderation in any way for people struggling with alcohol use disorder or any type of dependence on alcohol or other substances,” he noted. “We don’t think drinking ‘less’ is a solution.”
Side effects
Common side effects of naltrexone may include nausea and vomiting, headache, sleep disturbances, dizziness, fatigue, anxiety, loss of appetite, and joint or muscle pain, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
These effects are usually mild and may improve as the body adjusts to the medication.
The medication is useful for people who experience strong cravings, who often drink excessively once they start, or drink primarily as a reward or relief rather than out of habit. (iStock)
In rare cases, patients may experience more serious effects, such as liver problems, allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, and mental health effects.
“The most important thing when taking naltrexone for alcohol use is to ensure that there is no concurrent use of opioids, as taking naltrexone when using opioids can induce precipitated withdrawal, a very uncomfortable event,” Campbell cautioned.
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More than 50% of American adults drink alcohol, about 17% are classified as binge drinkers, and about 6% binge drink, according to CDC data.
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Each year, around 178,000 deaths in the country are related to excessive alcohol consumption.
“Excessive alcohol consumption and binge drinking can lead to many health problems and worsen chronic health conditions, so reducing alcohol consumption can actually improve health,” Donita Robinson, Ph.D., associate professor of psychiatry at the UNC School of Medicine in North Carolina, told News Digital.
More than 50% of American adults drink alcohol, about 17% are classified as binge drinkers, and about 6% binge drink. (iStock)
“Naltrexone helps many people reduce their alcohol consumption; it is an effective medication for reducing alcohol cravings and binge drinking, and works best in combination with counseling or other therapy.”
Robinson reiterated that people taking opioid medications, including some pain relievers, should not take naltrexone, as it can block its effectiveness and lead to opioid withdrawal.
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Naltrexone is available with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider, such as a primary care physician, addiction medicine specialist, or psychiatrist.
Health officials warn against purchasing the drug online or without a prescription, as it may be counterfeit and unsafe.
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Those interested in exploring whether naltrexone is an option for them should consult a doctor, who can evaluate the safety of the medication based on the patient’s medical condition and history.
They should also “make sure they have their goals and intentions aligned before using a medication like this,” according to Steinman.
Melissa Rudy is a senior health editor and member of the lifestyle team at News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@News.com.