What is Naltrexone Hydrochloride Prescribed For? A Complete Guide.

Naltrexone Hydrochloride is a prescription medication primarily used to treat alcohol dependence and opioid use disorder. Naltrexone has been used to treat opioid dependence and alcohol addiction. As an opioid antagonist, it works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain and reducing cravings for both alcohol and narcotics. It is a clinically approved, non-addictive medication that plays a key role in relapse prevention and long-term recovery.  

Naltrexone Hydrochloride: An Overview

Naltrexone Hydrochloride is available in tablet form (usually 50 mg) and as a long-acting injectable (brand: Vivitrol). It belongs to a class of drugs known as opioid antagonists. Unlike opioids, it does not produce euphoria or cause physical dependence. Its role is purely therapeutic—to block the effects of addictive substances and help people stay substance-free.

What Is Naltrexone Hydrochloride Prescribed For?

a. Alcohol Dependence (Alcoholism)

One of the most common uses of Naltrexone Hydrochloride is in the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD). It does not treat withdrawal symptoms but helps:

• Reduce cravings for alcohol

• Lower the feeling of reward/euphoria from drinking

• Prevent relapse
   

Naltrexone can be started after a few days of abstinence from alcohol. It works best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and behavioral therapy.

b. Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

Naltrexone is also used for people recovering from addiction to opioids such as:

• Heroin

• Morphine

• Oxycodone

• Fentanyl

In this case, Naltrexone Hydrochloride:

• Blocks the opioid receptors in the brain

• Prevents the user from experiencing any high if they relapse

• Reduces psychological craving for opioids

It must be started only after detoxification is complete, typically 7–10 days after the last opioid use. Starting it too early can cause precipitated withdrawal.

c. Weight Loss (Off-label Use)

Naltrexone Hydrochloride, in combination with Bupropion, is used in an extended-release formulation (brand: Contrave) for weight loss. It is prescribed to people with obesity or overweight individuals with risk factors such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

How Does Naltrexone Work?

Naltrexone binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and blocks them from being activated by other opioids or substances like alcohol. This means:

• If someone drinks or takes opioids, they will not feel the pleasurable effects.

• Over time, this discourages use and helps the brain rewire its response to addictive substances.
   

Importantly, it is not a cure for addiction but a long-term management tool.

Who Can Use Naltrexone?

It is prescribed to:

• Adults (18 years and older)

• People diagnosed with moderate to severe alcohol or opioid use disorder

• Patients who have completed detox (especially for opioids)

• Individuals who are motivated to remain sober 

How You Can Purchase Naltrexone Hydrochloride ?   

Purchasing Naltrexone Hydrochloride is a straightforward process when done through a licensed and reliable pharmaceutical provider. Since Naltrexone is a prescription-only medication used to treat alcohol dependence, opioid use disorder, and in some cases, weight management, it must be obtained under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

To begin, you should consult a registered doctor who will evaluate your condition and determine whether Naltrexone is appropriate for your treatment plan. Once prescribed, the medicine can be purchased from a certified medical store, hospital pharmacy, or an authorized online platform that deals in prescription drugs. Always ensure that the platform is GMP-certified or tied to a reputable pharmaceutical manufacturer to guarantee product authenticity and quality.

If you are a medical practitioner, hospital, pharmacy, or distributor, you can also buy bulk quantities of Naltrexone Hydrochloride from trusted manufacturers like Steris Healthcare Pvt Ltd, which offers high-quality, WHO-GMP-certified formulations.