Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a proven program that combines drugs — like naltrexone and buprenorphine — with behavioral therapy to treat opioid use disorder. At Confidant Health, we combine evidence-based interventions such as MAT with digital resources to make healthcare more accessible.
Studies show that MAT can help 75% to 85% of users abstain from opioids. However, like most treatments, it is not free from side effects, and 46% of MAT users report quitting their program due to adverse effects.
Naltrexone is the safest FDA-approved treatment for OUD, with a discontinuation rate of 15 %. With that being said, naltrexone users can also experience side effects. In this article, we break down naltrexone's side effects and how long they take to go away.
What is Naltrexone, and How Does it Act?
Naltrexone is an FDA-approved treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD). It works as an opioid antagonist that occupies opioid receptors in the brain. This blocks the sedative and euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids.
Naltrexone Side Effects: A Comprehensive Overview
What Are Low-Dose Naltrexone Side Effects?
Low-dose naltrexone (1-5 mg/day) has fewer side effects than regular-dose naltrexone. On top of that, no serious side effects have been reported.
Studies show vivid dreams — affecting 37% of users — and headaches are the most common side effects of low-dose naltrexone. In addition, 6% of patients also report difficulty sleeping.
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