If you’ve been told to take naltrexone, the first question is always “how much?” The answer depends on why you’re using it and how your body reacts. Below we break down the typical doses for alcohol‑related issues and opioid dependence, plus tips on starting low, staying safe, and what to watch out for.
Most doctors start adults at 50 mg once a day. The tablet is taken with or without food, usually in the morning so you won’t forget it at night. Some people stay on that single dose for months; others may need to go up to 100 mg daily if cravings are still strong.
Why the jump? Higher doses block more of the brain’s reward receptors, making alcohol feel less rewarding. But increasing the amount can also raise the chance of headaches or nausea, so any change should be discussed with your prescriber.
When naltrexone is used after detox from opioids, the loading dose is usually 25 mg three times a day for the first three days. This short‑term schedule fills the receptors without overwhelming your system.
After the loading phase, most patients switch to a maintenance dose of 50 mg once daily. Some clinics give an extended‑release injection (380 mg) every four weeks instead of pills – it’s handy if you forget daily meds.
If you’re on the pill form and still feel cravings after a few weeks, talk to your doctor about adjusting to 100 mg daily. Again, higher doses can cause more side effects, so monitor how you feel.
Before you begin, make sure you’re opioid‑free for at least seven days; otherwise naltrexone can trigger withdrawal. Your doctor may run a quick urine test to confirm.
Start with the lowest effective dose. If you notice mild stomach upset or dizziness, try taking the tablet with food or splitting it into two smaller doses (e.g., 25 mg twice a day) for the first week.
Common side effects include headache, nausea, fatigue, and occasional liver enzyme changes. If you feel intense abdominal pain, dark urine, or yellow skin/eyes, call your doctor right away – those could be signs of a liver issue.
Alcohol can still damage your liver while on naltrexone, so keep drinking to a minimum. Also, avoid using any opioid medication (including some cough syrups) because the drug will block them and you might not get pain relief when needed.
If after two weeks you haven’t noticed any reduction in cravings, or if side effects keep you from taking the pill, reach out. Dose adjustments, switching to the injectable form, or adding supportive counseling can make a big difference.
Remember, naltrexone works best when combined with therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes. It’s not a magic bullet, but at the right dose it can keep you on track.
Stick to the plan, report any weird symptoms, and keep your doctor in the loop. With the right dose, naltrexone can be a solid part of your recovery toolbox.
Naltrexone is a medication that helps people with alcohol and opioid addiction. This guide explains how it works, who can benefit from it, what to expect from side effects, and how doctors use it safely. Honest facts, practical tips, and real stats are all included to give you a clear picture of what naltrexone can do.
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