NALTREXONE FOR ALCOHOL DEPENDENCY AND OPIOID OVERDOSE

 

Naltrexone, also known as Naloxone, is a medication used for reversal of opioid overdose and alcohol dependency.  Results of treatment for overdose are almost immediate.  Naltrexone can also be used to treat opioid-induced side effects with small dosages.  

VIVITROL (Naltrexone extended-release injectable suspension) is a prescription injectable medicine use to treat alcohol dependency.  It is a once monthly injection that is non-addictive and is also an opioid blocker.  You should not take VIVITROL if you are taking opioid-containing medicines or opioid street drugs such as Heroin.  You should not take VIVITROL if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.  VIVITROL is FDA approved as a monthly injection.  Common side effects may include depressed mood, pneumonia, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, headache, decreased appetite, muscle cramps, and toothache.  There is no FDA approved implantable Naltrexone on the market.  Beware of those offering Naltrexone implants for treatment of opioid conditions and side effects.  These are usually insurance scams by unscrupulous physicians.  As with any treatment protocol, proper monitoring and psychological counseling are an important adjunct.

EVZIO is an auto inject prescription medicine containing 2 mg Naloxone.  This FDA approved drug is used in adults and children for the treatment of opioid emergency related to overdose with signs of breathing problems and decreased ability to respond.     It does not take the place of emergency medical care and you should always first call 911 duringany life threatening situation.  Evzio is safe and effective with almost immediate reversal to overdose from opioids.  The auto injector is carried with you in case of any opioid emergency.  You should always tell your doctor if you have heart problems or are pregnant.  Evzio may cause withdrawal symptoms in your unborn baby.  Other common side effects of Evzio include dizziness and injection site redness.  Do not use Evzio if you are allergic to naloxone or any of the ingredients in the auto injector. The medication is covered by most insurance. For more information go to EVZIO.COM

NARCAN NASAL SPRAY 4mg is an FDA approved nasal form of naloxone used for emergency treatment of known or suspected opioid overdose. As in any life threatening emergency, always call 911.  The nasal spray wiill reverse overdose signs of breathing problems and severe sleepiness with inability to respond.  This spray is injected into the nasal mucosa and can have an immediate reversal effect.  Often more than one application may be necessary for reversal.  Repeated doses may be necessary because the symptoms may return.  Side effects are the same as for Evzio. This medication is covered by most insurances.  This is a low cost alternate to EVZIO.  In some cases it may not be as effective.