Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist and primarily used to manage alcohol or opioid dependence.
Naltrexone was first synthesized in 1965 and was approved for medical use in the United States in 1984.
It reduces the effect of opioid analgesics (analgesic, antidiarrheal, antitussive); eliminates the side effects of opioids (including endogenous ones), with the exception of the symptoms caused by the histamine response. In alcoholism, it binds to opioid receptors and blocks the effects of endorphins. Reduces the need for alcohol and prevents relapses within 6 months after a 12-week course of therapy (the success of treatment depends on the consent of the patient). Prolonged appointment does not cause tolerance and dependence. Onset of action - after 1-2 hours.
A low dose of naltrexone (up to 4.5 mg per day taken orally) is recommended by some doctors for use in autoimmune diseases such as Crohn's disease and multiple sclerosis.
Naltrexone can be used to alleviate the symptoms of antisocial personality disorder in men and borderline personality disorder in women
An opioid-dependent person should not receive naltrexone before detoxification. In those still on opioids, opioid withdrawal may occur.