NALTREXONE FOR THE TREATMENT OF ALCOHOLISM

Naltrexone is a pure opioid antagonist that is an effective nonaversiv e pharmacologic treatment for alcohol dependence. The usual dosage is 50 mg per day. Side effects may include nausea, headache, dizziness an d arthralgia. Naltrexone appears to exert its effect by decreasing the craving for alcohol. It has also been useful in allowing some patient s to decrease their need for other medications, such as benzodiazepine s and antihypertensives. Naltrexone should be used as an adjunct to a comprehensive alcohol treatment program that addresses concomitant med ical problems and psychosocial concerns.