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Naltrexone

Naltrexone

Naltrexone services offered in Frisco and Little Elm, TX

If you struggle with an alcohol or opioid addiction and want to break free, the experts at AG Psychiatry in Frisco, Texas, are here for you. Board-certified psychiatrists Pratibha Agarwal, MD, and Krishnendu Ghosh, MD, offer highly effective Naltrexone to treat substance use disorders. Schedule a mental health evaluation at AG Psychiatry by phone or online today.

Naltrexone Q & A

What is Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medicine used to treat opioid use and alcohol use disorder. It’s available as an injectable or pill form with a prescription. 

Taking Naltrexone can help you break an addiction by minimizing cravings for harmful substances. It’s safe and effective and can dramatically transform your life.

How does Naltrexone work?

Naltrexone works by blocking the sedative and euphoric effects of opioids, including morphine, heroin, codeine, and others. It binds to and blocks opioid receptors to reduce cravings for these addictive substances without the risk of abuse.

Naltrexone also binds to endorphin receptors in your body to block the effects of alcohol, reduce alcohol cravings, and reduce the amount of alcohol you consume. 

Who is a candidate for Naltrexone?

Naltrexone can help people diagnosed with substance use disorder. It’s a component of a comprehensive treatment plan that typically also includes behavioral health therapies. 

Signs of substance use disorder include:

  • Needing more and more of a substance
  • Cravings for harmful substances 
  • Not being able to stop using opioids or drinking alcohol
  • Being high or drunk
  • Frequent accidents
  • Erratic behavior
  • Mood swings
  • Withdrawal symptoms when quitting
  • Depression or anxiety 
  • Relationship challenges
  • Problems at work or school
  • Impulsive or poor decision-making
  • Hiding substance use from other people
  • Physical health issues

You should be at least 18 years old to use Naltrexone. Before taking Naltrexone, wait at least seven days after using opioids or complete the alcohol detoxification process as directed by your provider. 

Should I take Naltrexone?

To determine if Naltrexone suits you, your psychiatrist discusses your medical history, lifestyle, symptoms, medication regimen, and more. They also complete a psychiatric evaluation to establish if you have a substance use disorder. Tell your provider if you have any medical conditions or are currently using illicit drugs or drinking alcohol.

What can I expect when taking Naltrexone?

You require a prescription to take Naltrexone. You might take a pill daily or receive an extended-release Naltrexone injection every four weeks. 

Follow your treatment plan exactly as directed. It may include psychotherapy sessions and lifestyle changes in addition to taking medication.

Schedule a Naltrexone evaluation at AG Psychiatry by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.