| | Medication Information:
Naltrexone (generic) ~ ReVia (brand) Classification: Opioid blocker; alcohol detoxification
Common Usage: Decreases the development of physical dependence to
opioid-based narcotics (heroin, morphine, methadone, codeine, etc.). It
may induce withdrawal in opiate-dependent individuals. CommonMajor Side Effects: For both alcohol and narcotics detoxification,
patients may experience nausea, headache, fatigue and nervousness.
Patients withdrawing from alcohol have also reported insomnia, anxiety,
abdominal cramping, vomiting and joint and muscle pain. It should be
stressed that many of these side effects may not be a direct cause of the drug
itself, but are rather a result of the substance withdrawal process. Call
your physician immediately should any of the following occur: abdominal
pain/swelling, dark-colored urine, white stools or yellowing of eyes and/or
skin. This is not a complete list of all known or potential adverse
effects. Notify your prescriber or pharmacist of any symptoms that concern
you that have started since you began taking this medication, or if you have
changed the dose, or added or changed other medication. Interactions with Other Medications: Patients are cautioned never to
attempt to override the anti-narcotic effects with large doses of opiates.
This can be fatal. Patients should be opioid-free for at least 7 to 10
days before starting ReVia, and have a passed a Narcan Challenge given to them
by their physician prior to therapy. This also includes, but is not
limited to codeine-based cough syrups or other opioid-based drugs.
Antabuse (disulfiram) when used with drug may cause liver problems.
Mellaril (thioridazine) may cause an increase in drowsiness and fatigue when
used with ReVia. This is not a complete list of all known or potential
drug interactions. To help prevent avoidable problems, always make sure
your pharmacist and all prescribers know all of the medications you are taking.
This includes over-the-counter drugs and any dietary or herbal supplements or
medications. This is not a complete list of all known or potential drug
interactions. To help prevent avoidable problems, always make sure your
pharmacist and all prescribers know all of the medications you are taking.
This includes over-the-counter drugs and any dietary or herbal supplements or
medications. CommonDosages: After successfully passing a Narcan Challenge (it is
recommended that even patients being treated for alcohol detoxification be given
this test to discover any underlying opioid use), starting dose is usually 25 mg
for the first dose, followed by 50 mg per day (both alcohol and narcotics
detoxification); or 50 mg Monday through Friday, with 100 mg on Saturday and
none on Sunday; or 100 mg every other day; or 150 mg every third day. Do
not exceed your physician's recommended dose, and be sure to keep all follow-up
appointments so that proper monitoring can be done. It is highly
recommended that patients carry an identification card (obtained from the
physician) with them at all times to alert emergency personnel to the fact that
they are taking ReVia. Notify your prescriber or pharmacist if you change
you dose or discontinue this medication for any reason. Identification: 50 mg, round and white, scored with "DuPont" on one
side, and "NTR" on the other. Storage: Store this medication at normal room temperature (59° F to 86°
F) in a tightly closed, light- and moisture-resistant container. If you
have difficulty opening child-resistant containers, your pharmacist can provide
a container that is easier to open. Keep the medication out of direct
sunlight and avoid storing it in a warm or humid area - such as the bathroom or
kitchen - to prevent deterioration. To prevent accidental poisoning, keep
all medications out of the reach of children. Do not take an expired
medication. Do not transfer medication from one container to another.
Carefully discard discontinued medication where children cannot find it. Edited by Stephen R.
Saklad, Pharm.D. ASERVICE OF…. Psychopharmacology Update
Note: These guidelines are for general information only.For more specific information, consult your physician orpharmacist. |
