Drinking On Naltrexone

I have been taking naltrexone for about 3 weeks now 50 mg/day to help control my overindulgence in the drink. Its not really working. I drink pretty steady and when I get out of work crave a cold one (or 12) pretty strong. The naltrexone kind of made me not want to drink as much, but not enough to make me actually not drink. Im not trying to stop drinking. I just sometimes over do it and make a fool of myself, upset/disappoint loved ones, hurt myself etc, etc. I feel this runs in tandem with my social anxiety, where I try to use alcohol to beat the anxiety, which never works, but I dont seem to be able to learn that lesson. Once I have a few, the buzz kicks in which inturn makes me want more. Did I mention I really, really like being drunk. I know that sounds immature, but its true. Im a 35 year old man, and booze has been an issue Ive been battling for 20 years now. Anyhow, I just upped my dosage to 100 mg/day in the hopes that it may may curb my thirst. Im surprised there aren't more forums concerning this issue as this is the only one I've been able to find. Wondering how others are reacting to it, of if meds in combo work better? I usually dont like rx meds, but really had/have hope after hearing about this drug. I would love to hear others' experiences. Thx.

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Hello, Chandler! How are you? I'm very sorry about the problems you're having.

I'm also going to be completely honest with you here, until you decide that you really want to stop drinking, it isn't likely that this medication or any other will actually work. It's the same for smokers, they can try anything, but until they are completely ready to stop and really acknowledge all the dangers, nothing will help and they'll fail to quit, or start back up.

There are other medications you could speak to your doctor about trying, but you're really going to have to accept the need to quit in your own mind first, no medication can do it all for you. It would be great, if they could, but they don't work like that.

And please don't think I'm being rude, that's not in my nature, as I said, I'm just being honest. I've talked to many other people over the years that have been drinkers, smokers and drug addicts, but their being able to stop always comes down to the same thing. No medical intervention by itself is enough.

As to the Naltrexone, is your doctor aware that you've raised your dose? That may cause you to experience more of the side effects that the FDA lists, such as abdominal cramping, dizziness, diarrhea, loss of appetite and irritability.

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Chandler,I take 50 mg 2 times daily and it's been very helpful. I've been sober for a year now. I'm about the same age as you. I also take part in a non 12 step program that includes therapy. Maybe that is something you could try if you aren't already and if you're able. Best of luck. I know how hard it can be. I also used alcohol because of extreme anxiety. I hope you can get some help for that also. It's such a crappy way to go through life. The naltrexone really has been life saving for me. I tried quitting and slowing down for years on my own with no luck. I had almost an immediate relief from my cravings when I started the meds. No two people are alike though. I hope my answer helps. Again best of luck and hang in there. It's gotten better for me and I'm sure it can for you,too!

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