Naltrexone: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When someone is trying to break free from opioid or alcohol dependence, Naltrexone, a medication that blocks opioid receptors in the brain to reduce cravings and prevent the high from drugs or alcohol. Also known as Vivitrol when given as a monthly injection, it doesn’t get you high, doesn’t cause dependence, and is used as part of a broader recovery plan. Unlike methadone or buprenorphine, which activate opioid receptors to ease withdrawal, Naltrexone simply shuts them down. That means you can’t get high from heroin, oxycodone, or even alcohol if you take it as directed. It’s not a cure, but it’s a powerful tool—especially when combined with counseling or support groups.

Naltrexone works because it binds tightly to opioid receptors, leaving no room for other opioids to attach. If someone takes heroin or painkillers while on Naltrexone, they won’t feel anything. That’s not a punishment—it’s a reset. Over time, the brain starts to unlearn the association between using drugs and feeling reward. For alcohol, it reduces the pleasurable effects and the urge to keep drinking. Studies show people on Naltrexone are more likely to stay abstinent, especially in the first few months of recovery. It’s not for everyone. You must be fully detoxed before starting, or you could trigger sudden withdrawal. And if you ever need pain relief after surgery, you’ll need non-opioid options.

It’s also used for alcohol dependence, a condition where drinking becomes uncontrollable and harmful. Many people don’t realize that Naltrexone can help with both opioid and alcohol use disorders. That’s because both involve the brain’s reward system. It’s also sometimes prescribed off-label for gambling, binge eating, or even certain autoimmune conditions, though those uses are less common. The key is consistency—daily pills or monthly shots must be taken regularly to work. Missing doses can reduce effectiveness and leave you vulnerable.

You’ll find real comparisons in the posts below—how Naltrexone stacks up against other treatments, what side effects people actually experience, and how it fits into daily life. Some users report nausea or headaches at first. Others say it gave them back control they thought was gone forever. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But if you’re looking for a medication that doesn’t replace one addiction with another, Naltrexone is one of the few options that fits that bill.

Below, you’ll see detailed breakdowns of how Naltrexone compares with other recovery tools, what to expect when you start, and how to avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re considering it for yourself or supporting someone who is, the information here is practical, no-fluff, and grounded in what actually works.