addtrex tablet - Naltrexone (50mg) medicine

Addtrex Tablet (Naltrexone 50mg): Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Rusan Pharma Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High for opioid and alcohol dependence.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal cramps after taking this medicine (may indicate opioid withdrawal).
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain (signs of liver injury).
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
  • Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe dizziness.
  • Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, or throat.
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising.
  • Confusion or extreme drowsiness.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is addtrex tablet used for?

This medicine is an opioid antagonist used to treat opioid and alcohol dependence. It works by blocking the rewarding effects of opioids and alcohol, helping patients stay abstinent. It is taken orally as a 50 mg tablet once daily, but only after the patient has been opioid-free for 7-10 days.

  • Generic Name: Naltrexone
  • Manufacturer: Rusan Pharma Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 addtrex tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा नाल्ट्रेक्सोन हाइड्रोक्लोराइड 50 मिलीग्राम की एक टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग ओपिओइड और शराब की लत के इलाज में किया जाता है। यह मस्तिष्क में उन रिसेप्टर्स को ब्लॉक करती है जिन पर ओपिओइड और शराब असर करते हैं, जिससे नशे का आनंद कम हो जाता है और लत छोड़ने में मदद मिलती है। यह दवा अकेले काम नहीं करती; इसके साथ काउंसलिंग और व्यवहार चिकित्सा भी जरूरी है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना शुरू या बंद न करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना, थकान, अनिद्रा, बेचैनी और पेट दर्द शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ हफ्तों में ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी यकृत (लिवर) को नुकसान, मूड में बदलाव या आत्महत्या के विचार जैसे गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव भी हो सकते हैं। अगर आपको पीलिया, गहरे रंग का पेशाब, या मन में अजीब विचार आएं तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को शुरू करने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी स्वास्थ्य समस्याओं और दवाओं के बारे में बताएं। ओपिओइड लेना बंद करने के कम से कम 7-10 दिन बाद ही यह दवा शुरू करें, वरना गंभीर विथड्रॉल हो सकता है। इस दवा के साथ शराब न पिएं। गर्भवती महिलाएं या गर्भधारण की योजना बनाने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, तब तक वाहन न चलाएं। नियमित रूप से लिवर की जांच कराते रहें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 addtrex tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Opioid dependence","description":"This medicine is used to help patients who have stopped using opioids to remain abstinent by blocking the euphoric effects of opioids if they relapse.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Alcohol dependence","description":"This medicine reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol and helps decrease heavy drinking in patients with alcohol use disorder.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Impulse control disorders","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label for conditions such as pathological gambling, kleptomania, or compulsive sexual behaviour, based on its ability to modulate reward pathways.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Weight management","description":"Low-dose naltrexone has been studied off-label for weight loss and metabolic syndrome, but evidence is not robust.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Opioid dependence

Also treats: Alcohol dependence

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Naltrexone
Brand NameAddtrex Tablet
ManufacturerRusan Pharma Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassNEURO CNS
Action ClassOpioid Antagonist
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Ensure the patient has been opioid-free for at least 7-10 days before starting this medicine to avoid precipitated withdrawal.
2
Consider starting with a lower dose (e.g., 25 mg) on the first day to assess tolerability.
3
Monitor liver function tests at baseline and periodically during treatment.
4
Advise patients to avoid alcohol and opioid-containing medications while on this medicine.
5
Discuss the importance of combining this medicine with counselling and behavioural therapy for best outcomes.
6
Warn patients about the risk of mood changes and suicidal thoughts, and advise them to report immediately.
7
Instruct patients to carry an emergency card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating they are on naltrexone.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Opioid cravings
This medicine is commonly prescribed to reduce opioid cravings.
Likely Use
Alcohol cravings
This medicine is used to reduce alcohol cravings and heavy drinking.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is rapidly and almost completely absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 1 hour. However, it undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism, resulting in a bioavailability of about 5-40%.
DistributionThis medicine is widely distributed throughout the body, with a volume of distribution of approximately 1350 litres. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta.
Protein BindingApproximately 21% bound to plasma proteins, primarily to albumin.
MetabolismThis medicine is extensively metabolised in the liver, primarily to 6-beta-naltrexol, which is also an opioid antagonist. The metabolism involves reduction and conjugation.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of naltrexone is approximately 4 hours, while its active metabolite 6-beta-naltrexol has a half-life of about 13 hours.
ExcretionThis medicine and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine (about 53-79% of a dose), with a smaller amount in faeces.
BioavailabilityOral bioavailability is approximately 5-40% due to extensive first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionOpioid blockade occurs within 1 hour of oral administration.
Peak Plasma Time1 hour for naltrexone; 1-2 hours for 6-beta-naltrexol.
Duration of ActionOpioid blockade lasts for approximately 24-72 hours depending on the dose, with a 50 mg dose providing blockade for about 24 hours.

How It Works

This medicine works by competitively binding to opioid receptors in the brain, particularly the mu-opioid receptors, without activating them. By occupying these receptors, it prevents opioids and alcohol from producing their rewarding and intoxicating effects. This helps reduce cravings and the desire to drink or use opioids. The blockade is reversible and dose-dependent.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to opioid receptors: This medicine binds competitively to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system.
2
Blockade of opioid effects: By occupying the receptors, it prevents opioids from binding and producing euphoria or pain relief.
3
Reduction of alcohol reward: It also blocks the rewarding effects of alcohol, possibly through interaction with endogenous opioid systems.
4
Decreased cravings: Over time, this leads to reduced cravings for opioids and alcohol, supporting abstinence.

💡 How to Take addtrex tablet

Strength: Immediate-release oral tablet, 50 mg.

1Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water.
2You may take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce nausea.
3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
4Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
5Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 50 mg once daily. For opioid dependence, treatment should be initiated only after the patient has been opioid-free for at least 7-10 days. For alcohol dependence, 50 mg once daily is standard. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-adjust the dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageNo specific dose adjustment is recommended for elderly patients, but use with caution due to potential for increased sensitivity to side effects. Individualize by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is typically needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment; individualize by a qualified clinician.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in mild to moderate hepatic impairment. Contraindicated in acute hepatitis or liver failure. Dose adjustment may be necessary; individualize by a qualified clinician.
Maximum Daily Dose50 mg per day for standard indications. Higher doses may be used in some settings under medical supervision.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset and nausea.
Grapefruit
No specific interaction
Grapefruit does not significantly affect naltrexone metabolism.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with your regular schedule.
📌 More than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of addtrex tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (10-20%))
Take with food and stay hydrated. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Headache (Common (10-15%))
Rest and use over-the-counter pain relief if needed. Consult doctor if severe.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Get adequate rest. If it interferes with daily activities, consult your doctor.
Insomnia (Common (5-10%))
Practice good sleep hygiene. Consult doctor if it persists.
Anxiety (Common (5-10%))
Discuss with your doctor; counselling may help.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Liver injury (Rare (<1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Suicidal thoughts (Rare (<1%))
Contact your doctor or a mental health professional immediately if you have thoughts of harming yourself.
Severe opioid withdrawal (Uncommon but predictable if opioids are present)
Seek emergency care if you experience severe vomiting, diarrhoea, or agitation after taking this medicine.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Eosinophilic pneumonia
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop difficulty breathing, cough, or fever.
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
Report unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor immediately.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Opioid analgesics Major
Thioridazine Major
Disulfiram Moderate
Rifampicin Moderate
Carbamazepine Moderate
Antacids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Opioid analgesics (e.g., morphine, codeine, fentanyl)
  • Thioridazine

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Disulfiram
  • CYP450 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage and may reduce the effectiveness of this medicine. Additionally, alcohol may worsen side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Current opioid use or opioid dependence not yet withdrawn","Acute hepatitis or liver failure","Hypersensitivity to naltrexone or any component","Patients receiving opioid analgesics"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not start until opioid-free for 7-10 days.","May precipitate severe opioid withdrawal.","Risk of liver injury; monitor liver enzymes.","May cause mood changes or suicidal thoughts.","Avoid alcohol.","Use effective contraception during treatment.","Do not drive until you know how it affects you."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine is excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding; alternative feeding options may be recommended.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine alone has not been associated with serious toxicity. However, if someone takes too much, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, so it may block the effects of opioid painkillers used in emergency treatment.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before starting this medicine, tell your doctor if you have any liver or kidney problems, depression, or a history of suicidal thoughts. You must be completely free of opioids for at least 7 to 10 days before taking the first dose, otherwise you may experience sudden and severe withdrawal. Do not take any opioid painkillers while on this medicine, as they will not work and could be dangerous. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase the risk of liver damage and reduce the medicine's effectiveness. Use reliable contraception if you are a woman of childbearing age, as this medicine may harm an unborn baby. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Keep all appointments with your doctor for regular liver function tests and monitoring. Never share this medicine with anyone else, even if they have the same condition. Store this medicine in a safe place out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially dizziness and fatigue. Use with caution and monitor closely. No specific dose adjustment is recommended, but individualization is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor before starting or continuing this medicine. Effective contraception is recommended during treatment. The safety of this medicine in pregnancy is not well established.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anaesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine, as it may interact with opioid painkillers used during and after surgery. You may need alternative pain management.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine, especially if you need pain relief. Opioid painkillers may not work effectively while you are on this medicine.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Attend regular counselling or support group meetings.
🥗
Avoid people, places, and situations that trigger cravings.
😴
Develop healthy hobbies and routines to replace substance use.
💧
Get adequate sleep and exercise regularly.
🧘
Eat a balanced diet to support overall health.
🌞
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue. Avoid strenuous exercise until you know how it affects you. Stay hydrated during exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Avoid alcohol completely.
Stay well hydrated.
Limit caffeine if it increases anxiety or insomnia.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It is important to inform your employer if your job involves safety-sensitive tasks.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects such as liver problems or suicidal thoughts, seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor will decide if and when to stop the medicine based on your progress and overall health.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe when monitored appropriately. Regular liver function tests are recommended because of the potential for liver injury. Some patients may experience persistent nausea, fatigue, or mood changes. It is important to have periodic reviews with your doctor to assess ongoing need and effectiveness. Do not stop suddenly without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cognitive behavioural therapy

Helps patients develop coping strategies and change thought patterns related to substance use.

Evidence: Well-established
Support groups (e.g., Narcotics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous)

Provides peer support and accountability.

Evidence: Well-established
Acamprosate

Another medication for alcohol dependence with a different mechanism.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions are known. However, patients with substance use disorders may be at higher risk for certain infections; discuss appropriate vaccinations with your doctor.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When travelling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes. If crossing time zones, continue taking your dose at the same time each day according to your home schedule, or adjust gradually as advised by your doctor. Store away from direct sunlight and moisture. Check customs regulations for controlled substances before travelling internationally.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man with a history of opioid dependence
After completing detox and being opioid-free for 10 days, he was started on this medicine 50 mg daily. He also attended weekly counselling sessions. He reported reduced cravings and was able to maintain abstinence for over a year. He experienced mild nausea initially, which subsided after two weeks.
💡 Lesson: Adherence to the prescribed dose and combining with counselling significantly improves outcomes.
👤 A 50-year-old woman with alcohol use disorder
She was prescribed this medicine 50 mg daily to help reduce her alcohol intake. She noticed that even if she drank, the pleasure was diminished, and she gradually stopped drinking altogether. She had regular liver function tests, which remained normal. She emphasized the importance of taking the medicine at the same time every day.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can be effective for alcohol dependence when taken consistently and combined with lifestyle changes.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts blocking opioid receptors within 1 hour of taking a dose. However, its full benefits in reducing cravings and supporting abstinence may take several weeks to become apparent.

Q: Can I take this medicine if I am pregnant?

A: Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. The safety in pregnancy is not well established, and your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.

Q: What happens if I take opioids while on this medicine?

A: This medicine blocks the effects of opioids, so you will not feel the euphoria. However, taking high doses of opioids to overcome the blockade can lead to serious overdose and death. Always inform emergency personnel that you are on this medicine.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my liver?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for addtrex tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is a substitute for opioids.
    Fact: This medicine is not an opioid and does not produce euphoria. It blocks opioid effects and helps in recovery.
  • Myth: You can start this medicine immediately after stopping opioids.
    Fact: You must be opioid-free for 7-10 days to avoid severe withdrawal.
  • Myth: This medicine cures addiction on its own.
    Fact: It is most effective when combined with counselling and behavioural therapy.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Naltrexone hydrochloride 50 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Addtrex Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","class":"Opioid antagonist","primary_use":"Opioid and alcohol dependence","route":"Oral","half_life":"4 hours (naltrexone), 13 hours (metabolite)"},{"medicine":"Acamprosate","class":"NMDA modulator","primary_use":"Alcohol dependence","route":"Oral","half_life":"20-33 hours"},{"medicine":"Disulfiram","class":"Aldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitor","primary_use":"Alcohol dependence","route":"Oral","half_life":"60-120 hours"}]

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