Naltrexone is a drug that can be prescribed by any health practitioner that is licensed to prescribe medications. This differentiates it from medications like methadone and buprenorphine.
Eligible prescribers may include:
- physicians (primary care provider)
- nurse practitioners
- physician assistants
Naltrexone, also known as Vivitrol or Revia, is prescribed for the treatment of alcohol use disorder and opioid use disorder, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Learn more about taking Naltrexone for addiction treatment
What Are The Requirements For Prescribing Naltrexone?
Unlike other opioid addiction medications, such as methadone and buprenorphine (Suboxone), no special training is needed for a doctor to prescribe naltrexone.
Naltrexone is FDA-approved as a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) option for alcohol and opiate dependence, including addiction to heroin.
The one requirement is that healthcare providers must be licensed to prescribe medications in order to prescribe naltrexone for patients.
Who Is A Candidate For Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is most commonly prescribed for treating opioid and alcohol dependence after detoxification. When taken as directed, it can help people maintain their sobriety.
Any person receiving naltrexone should be opioid-free for at least seven days before taking naltrexone. Otherwise, naltrexone could cause symptoms of precipitated opioid withdrawal.
Naltrexone is not recommended for those who are actively drinking alcohol or those who are alcohol-dependent. Naltrexone does not prevent intoxication or alcohol-related impairment.
How To Find A Doctor To Prescribe Naltrexone
Naltrexone can be prescribed by a general physician or primary care doctor, as long as they are licensed to prescribe medication.
If you wish to start taking naltrexone, or are looking for naltrexone treatment for a loved one, you may begin by first talking with your doctor.
Naltrexone is also available as a treatment option within some drug and alcohol rehab centers, where it may be taken as part of a comprehensive addiction treatment plan.
Finding Naltrexone Treatment Options Near You
Naltrexone is approved for use as a medication-assisted treatment for opioid and alcohol dependence—both of which are conditions that affect millions of Americans.
If you’re looking for addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one, one of our trained staff members may be able to help.
Call us today to learn more about naltrexone or to find naltrexone treatment options near you.
Addiction Resource aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.
These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) — Naltrexone
https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/naltrexone - University of Massachusetts Medical School — Fact Sheet on Naltrexone
https://www.umassmed.edu/globalassets/center-for-integrated-primary-care/amber/fact-sheet-on-naltrexone.pdf - Vivitrol — Highlights of Prescribing Information
https://www.vivitrol.com/content/pdfs/prescribing-information.pdf
