When you’re struggling with opioid addiction, finding a path to freedom can feel overwhelming. Withdrawal symptoms are tough, and cravings can make your journey even harder. At a medication-assisted detox center, you’ll discover help and hope. Many people look for answers to a question that matters deeply to their well-being: Does naltrexone help with withdrawal symptoms? Getting reliable information and thoughtful support is crucial for empowering you to move forward confidently.
Naltrexone is one of several medications used to make the process of overcoming opioid or alcohol addiction safer and more manageable. The care team at Promises Brazos Valley understands that every person’s experience with withdrawal is unique. Our programs are designed to provide practical, compassionate care—helping you or your loved one work toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. If you’re curious about how naltrexone works in detox or want to know what to expect from this treatment, you’re in the right place.
How does naltrexone work for withdrawal?
Naltrexone is a medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating opioid addiction and alcohol dependence. What makes naltrexone special is how it acts as an opioid antagonist. This means it attaches to the opioid receptors in your brain, essentially blocking other opioids from working. When naltrexone is in your system, you don’t get the euphoric “high” from drugs like heroin, fentanyl, or prescription painkillers.
By stopping this effect, naltrexone helps reduce cravings. But there’s more to treatment than ending cravings alone. Recovery from opioid addiction often needs a combination of medications, therapies, and a strong network of support. Each step in this process is backed by thoughtful, professional care that focuses on your whole health.
How is naltrexone given at a medication-assisted detox center?
If your provider recommends naltrexone, you’ll typically receive it in one of two forms: a pill or an injection. The pill form gives you some scheduling options, such as:
- Taking one tablet daily
- Taking two tablets every other day
- Taking three tablets every three days
- Taking one tablet on weekdays and two tablets on Saturday
If you take the injectable form, it’s given as a monthly shot. This “extended-release” form can be a good fit for people who prefer not to take a pill every day. Your care team will always work with you to find the method that supports your needs and wellness goals.
Naltrexone for opioid withdrawal: What to expect
It’s important to know that naltrexone works differently than other medicines used for opioid detox, like methadone or buprenorphine. Those medications can help ease the physical pain of withdrawal and gradually wean you off opioids. Naltrexone, on the other hand, doesn’t act as a pain reliever or create feelings of euphoria. Instead, it works by blocking opioid effects, which can help you feel less tempted to use.
When you begin naltrexone for opioid withdrawal, your provider will let you know that you must stop using opioids for at least seven to 10 days before starting. This is very important. If naltrexone is given too soon, it can cause what’s known as “precipitated withdrawal,” which brings on naltrexone withdrawal symptoms quickly and can be especially uncomfortable.
Working closely with a knowledgeable care team is essential during this time. They’ll help you decide when to start naltrexone safely and address all aspects of your well-being as you move forward.
Does naltrexone help with withdrawal symptoms?
One of the most common questions people have is, “Does naltrexone help with withdrawal symptoms?” It can, but it does so in a unique way. Naltrexone’s biggest strength is that it blocks the pleasant or euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol. This can help reduce cravings, which are a big part of withdrawal. When used as part of a complete detox and recovery plan, it can support your journey and help you avoid relapse.
But naltrexone is not designed to treat all withdrawal symptoms on its own. It doesn’t ease physical side effects the way a partial opioid agonist like buprenorphine might. This means you might still feel symptoms such as:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
- Mood swings or emotional ups and downs
- Fatigue
- Depression
Naltrexone should always be given with professional oversight and alongside other therapies, medications, and supports to help you manage discomfort and stay safe.
Managing naltrexone withdrawal symptoms
Some people worry about “naltrexone withdrawal symptoms.” This term can be confusing. Naltrexone does not cause withdrawal on its own—instead, it can trigger withdrawal if taken while opioids are still in your system. To prevent this, detox teams will have you wait until your body is clear of opioids before starting naltrexone.
You might hear about “naltrexone withdrawal symptoms” in two contexts:
- Precipitated withdrawal: If you start naltrexone before you’ve fully detoxed from opioids, your symptoms may include chills, muscle aches, a runny nose, irritability, and cravings. These are the same symptoms you would have during opioid withdrawal, but they can start quickly and feel more intense.
- Stopping naltrexone: You don’t have to worry about withdrawal if you stop taking naltrexone, because it’s not addictive and your body doesn’t become physically dependent on it.
With a supportive care team and a well-designed program, you’ll avoid these issues and benefit most from your treatment.
Inpatient care vs. medication-assisted detox center: What’s right for you?
There are different paths to recovery, and your needs are always put first. An inpatient detox setting provides 24/7 supervision and medical care—a supportive environment if you have severe withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring health conditions. A medication-assisted detox center focuses on using medications like naltrexone and providing emotional support and counseling.
Both options have their place in addiction treatment, and your provider can help you choose the path that will protect your health and set you up for lasting recovery.
Important safety tips when using naltrexone
Your well-being matters most during every step of detox and recovery. You should always:
- Follow your doctor’s or care team’s exact instructions
- Share your complete health history before starting medication
- Keep your provider updated on any new symptoms you experience
- Never take opioids, even in small amounts, while using naltrexone (as it can lead to overdose or severe withdrawal)
- Have regular follow-ups to adjust your care plan as needed
Can naltrexone be combined with other treatments?
Absolutely. Naltrexone alone doesn’t solve every problem, but combined with therapies like counseling, group sessions, family support, and other medications, it forms a powerful part of your healing journey. At Promises Brazos Valley, we take the time to learn your story and build a personalized treatment plan focused on your safety, comfort, and long-term success.
Who can benefit most from naltrexone?
Naltrexone may be helpful if you:
- Have already completed opioid detox and are fully free of opioids for at least a week
- Are highly motivated to stay opioid-free and want a treatment that doesn’t cause physical dependence
- Do not want to use medications like methadone or buprenorphine
- Are looking for support in preventing relapse after inpatient or outpatient detox
Every recovery journey is personal. Our team will work with you and your loved ones to determine whether naltrexone is appropriate for your situation.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about naltrexone
How does naltrexone help with opioid withdrawal symptoms?
Naltrexone blocks the effects of opioids in your brain, which can decrease cravings and help prevent relapse. While it doesn’t treat all physical withdrawal symptoms, its primary benefit is stopping the rewarding feelings tied to opioid use, supporting you in moving forward with recovery.
What are the benefits of using naltrexone for opioid detox?
Benefits include non-addictiveness, monthly dosing (for the injectable form), and reduced risk of misuse. Naltrexone supports your recovery by keeping opioid cravings in check and encouraging you to stay on track with your goals.
Can naltrexone be used to ease withdrawal symptoms effectively?
Naltrexone is best at lowering cravings, but it does not relieve every symptom of withdrawal, such as muscle aches or anxiety. It’s most effective when part of a complete treatment plan that includes other medications and supportive therapies.
What should I know about naltrexone discontinuation and tapering off?
Naltrexone isn’t addictive, so you don’t have to “taper off” as you would with opioids. You can stop taking naltrexone without worrying about withdrawal, but always talk with your care team before making changes to your treatment.
How does naltrexone compare to other treatments for opioid withdrawal?
Other medications like methadone or buprenorphine help ease physical symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Naltrexone, by contrast, helps long-term by blocking opioid effects and reducing cravings, but doesn’t provide relief from physical withdrawal symptoms. A skilled care team will explain all options so you can make informed choices.
Connect with Promises Brazos Valley and get started on the path to a brighter future
Facing opioid withdrawal isn’t easy, but with caring support and proven treatments, healing is possible. You’ll never have to walk this journey alone at Promises Brazos Valley. We understand that questions like “Does naltrexone help with withdrawal symptoms?” reflect the real worries and hopes of every person who wants a new beginning. Our team uses naltrexone for withdrawal as part of a compassionate, personalized approach—making use of every tool and resource on your path to recovery.
If you’re ready to explore your options or want to know if a medication-assisted detox center is right for you, contact our team online or call 888.483.7851 today. We’re here to answer your questions, support your choices, and help you achieve your goals—because you deserve a life free from addiction and full of hope.