Naltrexone for Weight Loss: Understanding Dosages and Effectiveness

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of naltrexone and bupropion combination in the elderly. Weight gain is not a reported side effect of naltrexone, also known as Vivitrol. It’s more common for the opposite to occur, although certain personal factors can affect this. For example, many people with chronic substance use disorders are malnourished.

What else should I know about bupropion/naltrexone?

This Alcohol Use Disorder content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment, and personalized medical recommendations. Naltrexone is sometimes prescribed in combination with other medications to enhance its weight loss effects. A notable combination is Naltrexone and Bupropion, marketed as Contrave.

• This increase in endorphins not only helps modulate pain but also has anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating effects.
• Naltrexone alone is not prescribed for weight loss, but it is commonly used as part of a medication-assisted treatment program for opioid or alcohol addiction.
• If you’re interested in naltrexone, keep in mind that it must be taken under medical supervision.
• Naltrexone is used to manage opioid use disorder and alcohol dependence by blocking the effects of opioids and reducing cravings.
• Many users report experiencing benefits from Naltrexone 50mg for weight loss.

Limitations associated with research of Naltrexone for weight loss

Those who follow a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats, along with maintaining an active lifestyle, are likely to see quicker results. By the four to six-week mark, many users begin to notice more pronounced effects. This period is when changes in appetite regulation and a reduction in emotional eating habits may become more evident. Some individuals may start to see slight changes in weight, though this is not universal. A study on hyperandrogenic women with PCOS found that naltrexone improved insulin sensitivity by 40%, lowering testosterone and supporting metabolic health. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine naltrexone side effects the best timing based on individual needs and medical history.

Providers

Though all of these side effects can sound concerning, it’s important to keep in mind that naltrexone is still a very safe medication. Extensive reviews were conducted before the FDA approved it, and there is no evidence that it causes serious side https://greenchillyz.com/drug-alcohol-rehab-los-angeles/ effects. While some patients might have minor issues like nausea, naltrexone doesn’t cause dangerous issues like heart failure or strokes. Naltrexone/bupropion has not been compared with other pharmacologic approaches. In rare cases, patients may experience more severe effects, such as liver issues, allergic reactions, trouble breathing and mental health effects. “Naltrexone affects the rewards center of the brain, which blocks the rewarding effects of alcohol and cravings to be minimized. It can assist in telling the brain that alcohol isn’t wanted.”

• Naltrexone works as a medication to decrease alcohol opioid misuse, but let’s take a look at why it’s also tied to weight loss.
• Administered as an intramuscular injection, it offers a convenient alternative to daily oral naltrexone, providing continuous therapeutic levels of the medication.
• Results indicated that naltrexone at dosages exceeding 4 mg/kg significantly reduced food intake and weight gain among drug-free rats.
• The standard daily dosage of naltrexone administered for the management of opioid OR alcohol dependence is 50 mg.

Can anyone take Naltrexone for weight loss?

Researchers Tek et al. (2014) highlighted that individuals with schizophrenia are more prone to obesity than the general population. In addition, those with schizophrenia are also at increased risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. And unless you’re taking standalone naltrexone, it’ll be difficult to pinpoint which agent(s) are facilitating most of your weight loss.