Integrate Naltrexone:
A First-Line Standard of Care for AUD
The evidence for Naltrexone is robust (Level A Recommendation). This resource hub is designed for primary care physicians, addiction specialists, psychiatrists, and PAs/NPs to provide the necessary tools for confident, safe, and effective initiation and management of Naltrexone for Alcohol Use Disorder.
Protocols
Protocols
Protocols
AUD Pharmacotherapy: Naltrexone Initiation Essentials
Patient Selection
Moderate-to-severe AUD, patient goal of abstinence OR reduced heavy drinking. Medically stable. Ensure no active opioid dependence or severe liver failure (ALT/AST < 3-5x ULN).
Oral Dosing & Titration
Target dose: 50 mg once daily. Recommended to start at 25 mg for 3−7 days to assess tolerance and reduce GI side effects, then increase to 50 mg. Take with food.
Extended-Release Naltrexone (XR-NTX)
380 mg intramuscular injection every 4 weeks. Must confirm patient tolerates oral Naltrexone or has been opioid-free for ≥7 days before injection.
Treatment Duration
Recommended minimum is 3−6 months, with consideration for continuation for 6−24 months based on patient progress and relapse history. Continue medication even if a lapse occurs.
Practice Support
Practice Support
Practice Support
Education, Tools & Implementation Resources
CME / CPE Training
Modules on the neurobiology of AUD, differential diagnosis of AUD medications (Naltrexone vs. Acamprosate), and practical MAT prescribing.
Patient Education Materials
Downloadable, Alliance-branded fact sheets (at an 8th-grade reading level) to provide to patients.
Billing & Coding Guidance
Guidance on appropriate codes for AUD screening, diagnosis, and medication management to ensure proper reimbursement.
Peer Consultation Network
Access to a secure forum or registry of Naltrexone-experienced clinicians for case consultation and peer support.
Evidence
Evidence
Evidence
High-Impact Findings in AUD Medication Research
01
02
New Delivery Methods (Nasal Spray – Phase II)
Emerging investigational approaches for rapid-onset formulations.
03
Pharmacogenetics & OPRM1
How genetic variation may influence treatment response and inform personalization.
Blog
Blog
Blog
Helpful Tools to Get Started
Explore expert tips, health news, and patient-friendly articles to guide your wellness journey
Safety
Safety
Safety
A Note on Opioid Use
Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist.
If you take opioid pain medications or have Opioid Use Disorder, you must be opioid-free for a period before starting Naltrexone — otherwise it may trigger sudden withdrawal.
This site focuses specifically on Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear, straightforward answers to common concerns patients and families have about Naltrexone.
What does naltrexone do?
Does naltrexone make you sick if you drink?
Is naltrexone addictive?
Can I start naltrexone even if I’m not ready to quit drinking?
What forms does it come in?
How long does treatment last?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear, straightforward answers to common concerns patients and families have about Naltrexone.
What does naltrexone do?
Does naltrexone make you sick if you drink?
Is naltrexone addictive?
Can I start naltrexone even if I’m not ready to quit drinking?
What forms does it come in?
How long does treatment last?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear, straightforward answers to common concerns patients and families have about Naltrexone.
What does naltrexone do?
Does naltrexone make you sick if you drink?
Is naltrexone addictive?
Can I start naltrexone even if I’m not ready to quit drinking?
What forms does it come in?
How long does treatment last?