How Long Does Naltrexone Take to Work?

Contact Time Wellness Detox today to learn more about our medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in Arkansas.

What is Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is a prescription medication that treats alcohol use disorder or opioid use disorder.

Unlike some medications that create physical dependence or mimic the effects of drugs or alcohol, Naltrexone works in a very different way. In other words, it does not produce euphoria, sedation, or pleasure.

Instead, Naltrexone blocks certain receptors in the brain responsible for reinforcing addictive behaviors. Though this effect does not solve addiction on its own, it creates a foundation for therapy, life skills development, and long-term healing.

Naltrexone may be administered as a daily oral tablet. It is also available as a long-acting injectable medication called Vivitrol which delivers a steady dose for several weeks. The form used depends on your needs, treatment goals, medical history, and recommendations from a qualified provider.

How Does Naltrexone Work?

To understand how Naltrexone supports recovery, it helps to look at how addictive substances affect the brain.

Opioids and alcohol overstimulate certain pathways that create feelings of euphoria, relaxation, or emotional numbing. Eventually, the brain begins to rely on these external substances to regulate pleasure and stress. This reliance contributes to repeated use and dependence.

Naltrexone attaches to the same receptors that opioids and alcohol stimulate. However, instead of activating them, Naltrexone blocks them.

So, if a person drinks alcohol or uses opioids while on Naltrexone, the pleasurable or reinforcing effects decrease. Without that reinforcement, cravings gradually decrease. Then, the brain relearns healthier ways to manage stress, reward, and emotion.

How Can Naltrexone Help Me?

Naltrexone offers several benefits for individuals in recovery. These may include:

• Reduced cravings: By blocking the pleasurable effects of alcohol or opioids, Naltrexone reduces the desire to use.
• Lower risk of relapse: Many people have fewer episodes of use while on Naltrexone. Attending therapy further improves your outcomes for success.
• Improved focus in treatment: With decreased cravings, you’ll feel more engaged during therapy and support groups.
• Non-addictive support: Naltrexone does not cause dependence and does not require tapering off.
• Flexibility: The medication is available in daily and monthly forms. This flexibility offers multiple options depending on lifestyle and treatment needs.

In addition, according to the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) on their Get Smart About Drugs website, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with medications like Naltrexone, Methadone, and Buprenorphine offers the following benefits:

• Improve treatment retention and client survival rates
• Decrease illegal substance abuse and other criminal behaviors
• Increase a client’s ability to get and keep a job
• Improve birth outcomes for pregnant women in recovery

Naltrexone for Alcohol Use Disorder

For individuals recovering from alcohol use disorder (AUD), Naltrexone helps reduce the urge to drink. It also weakens the reward cycle that often leads to relapse. Many people find that with fewer cravings, they can participate in therapy more effectively and rebuild a healthier lifestyle.

Naltrexone does not treat withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, it is often introduced after a person completes a supervised alcohol detox program.

Naltrexone for Opioid Use Disorder

Naltrexone is also an important tool for people recovering from opioid use disorder (OUD). Blocking opioid receptors prevents the euphoric effects of drugs such as heroin, fentanyl, and prescription painkillers. This helps you resist urges and remain committed to long-term recovery after opioid detox.

What to Avoid When Taking Naltrexone

Although Naltrexone is considered safe, there are important precautions that individuals should follow:

• Avoid using opioids or drinking alcohol while taking the medication
• Avoid taking medications that may interact with Naltrexone unless approved by a medical professional
• Avoid starting Naltrexone without completing the necessary detox period, since the medication can trigger sudden withdrawal if opioids are still present in the body
• Avoid skipping appointments or check-ins that help monitor progress

Side Effects of Naltrexone

Most individuals tolerate Naltrexone well, but like all medications, it may cause side effects. These effects are usually mild and decrease as the body adjusts.

Side effects can include:

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Trouble sleeping
• Temporary dizziness
• Mild anxiety or irritability

Arkansas Addiction Treatment Programs That Offer Naltrexone

Time Wellness Detox offers comprehensive addiction treatment programs with several levels of care. Our team includes licensed providers who evaluate each person’s health, history, and goals to create a personalized treatment plan.

Our programs include:

• Medical Detox Programs: Our medical detox services offer a carefully monitored setting. This helps you safely manage withdrawal symptoms with comfort-focused care.
• Residential Rehab: Our residential rehab program creates a fully supportive setting where clients live on-site. That way, they receive continuous guidance, and can dedicate their time to therapeutic growth and recovery.
• Drug Rehab: Our drug rehab program helps individuals break free from substances like opioids and stimulants. During drug rehab, we combine evidence-based therapies, medical oversight, and relapse prevention strategies.
• Alcohol Rehab: Our alcohol rehab services guide clients through the early stages of sobriety. This includes therapy, medical guidance, and peer support. This approach addresses both the physical and emotional challenges of alcohol use disorder.
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Our dual diagnosis program treats addiction and mental health concerns at the same time. This promotes greater stability, clarity, and long-term wellness.
• Aftercare: Our aftercare program extends support beyond primary treatment. Aftercare offering continued guidance, accountability, and resources to help you stay sober.

How Long Do the Effects of Naltrexone Last?

The duration of Naltrexone’s effects depends on the form used. 

Oral tablets generally last for several hours, requiring daily use. However, long-acting injectables can provide steady support for approximately one month. 

Regardless of the form used, it is important to keep in mind that Naltrexone is most effective when paired with therapy.

Alternatives to Naltrexone

Some may not be an ideal match for Naltrexone. However, other medications can support withdrawal relief, emotional and physical stability, and long-term recovery. The best medication depends on your substance use history, medical needs, and goals. Our team can help explain how each option fits into a complete treatment plan.

Alternative MAT options may include:

• Buprenorphine: Helps reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
• Methadone: A long-acting medication that stabilizes individuals with opioid dependence.
• Acamprosate: Supports long-term alcohol abstinence by helping balance brain chemistry.
• Disulfiram: Creates an adverse reaction to alcohol to discourage drinking.
• Clonidine: Assists with easing opioid withdrawal symptoms without producing euphoria.

Why Time Wellness?

Time Detox Arkansas provides compassionate care to individuals and families affected by addiction.

We believe that healing requires more than medication alone. 

It requires connection, education, emotional support, and a nurturing environment. At our treatment center, individuals feel empowered rather than overwhelmed. Our staff treats everyone with dignity, patience, and respect in order to help them discover renewed hope in recovery.

At our facility, clients can expect several types of therapies, including:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• EMDR Therapy
• Family Therapy
• Trauma Therapy
• Holistic Therapy