Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is Naltrexone. It is used as part of a treatment plan to help people who are dependent on opioid drugs or alcohol. It may have other uses, too. 

It is often taken one time each day. Your doctor will determine what dose is right for you. You should take it exactly as your doctor tells you to. 

Most people tolerate this medicine well. At first, some side effects can occur, such as anxiety, stomach pain, nausea, and a headache. Some people will have trouble sleeping and muscle or joint pain. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. You should wait until you know how this medicine affects you before you do activities that require you to be alert, like driving. If these or other effects become reasons you want to stop taking it, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Do not suddenly stop taking it unless your doctor says it's okay.

As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects could occur. With Naltrexone, this includes problems with your liver. You should read the Patient Information Sheet to know which symptoms to watch for and when to report changes.

Naltrexone can interact with other medications. Do not take naltrexone if you still use opioid medicine. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines, and do not drink alcohol.

Wear a medical alert tag or carry an ID card stating that you use naltrexone. It is important that any medical care provider who treats you knows you are taking this medicine.

Naltrexone may be unsafe for unborn babies. Women should check with their doctors before becoming pregnant and before breastfeeding. 

For best results with naltrexone, be sure to follow your doctor's orders for counseling and therapy.