naltrex 50mg tablet - Naltrexone (50mg) medicine

Naltima 50 Tablet (Naltrexone 50 mg): Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Synmedic Laboratories 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark urine or pale stools
  • Severe abdominal pain, especially in the upper right abdomen
  • Persistent nausea and vomiting
  • Signs of severe allergic reaction: swelling of face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing
  • New or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual mood changes
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Symptoms of opioid withdrawal: severe vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle cramps, agitation

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is naltrex 50mg tablet used for?

Naltima 50 tablet contains naltrexone 50 mg, used to treat opioid and alcohol dependence by blocking opioid receptors and reducing cravings. It is taken once daily under medical supervision.

  • Generic Name: Naltrexone (50mg)
  • Manufacturer: Synmedic Laboratories
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 naltrex 50mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा नाल्ट्रेक्सोन 50 मिलीग्राम टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग ओपिओइड और शराब की लत के इलाज में किया जाता है। यह मस्तिष्क में ओपिओइड रिसेप्टर्स को ब्लॉक करती है, जिससे ओपिओइड और शराब के सेवन से मिलने वाला आनंद कम हो जाता है और लत छोड़ने में मदद मिलती है। यह दवा डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना नहीं लेनी चाहिए और इसे काउंसलिंग के साथ लेना ज्यादा फायदेमंद होता है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, सिरदर्द, थकान, चक्कर आना, अनिद्रा और पेट दर्द शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों में लीवर की समस्या, अवसाद या एलर्जी जैसी गंभीर प्रतिक्रियाएं भी हो सकती हैं। अगर आपको आंखों या त्वचा का पीलापन, गहरे रंग का पेशाब, या सांस लेने में कठिनाई महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को शुरू करने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी लीवर या किडनी की बीमारी, अवसाद या आत्महत्या के विचारों के बारे में बताएं। ओपिओइड का सेवन करने के बाद कम से कम 7 से 10 दिनों तक इस दवा को न लें, क्योंकि इससे गंभीर विथड्रॉल हो सकता है। इस दवा के साथ शराब न पिएं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। इस दवा को अपने आप बंद न करें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 naltrex 50mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Opioid dependence","description":"Helps prevent relapse in people who have stopped using opioids by blocking the euphoric effects of opioids.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Alcohol dependence","description":"Reduces alcohol craving and the rewarding effects of drinking, helping to maintain abstinence.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Opioid overdose prevention (maintenance therapy)","description":"Used as part of a long-term plan to reduce the risk of returning to opioid use.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Impulse control disorders","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label for conditions such as pathological gambling or kleptomania.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Weight management","description":"Low-dose naltrexone has been studied off-label for weight loss, but evidence is not strong.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chronic pain syndromes","description":"Low-dose naltrexone is sometimes used off-label for fibromyalgia or Crohn's disease, but this is not the standard 50 mg tablet use.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Opioid dependence

Also treats: Alcohol dependence

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Naltrexone (50mg)
Brand Namenaltrex 50mg tablet
ManufacturerSynmedic Laboratories
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassNEURO CNS
Action ClassOpioid Antagonist
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineThe World Health Organization includes naltrexone in its list of essential medicines for the treatment of opioid dependence and alcohol dependence. It is recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research recommends naltrexone as a first-line medication for opioid dependence and alcohol dependence, to be used along with psychosocial support.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Ensure the patient is opioid-free for at least 7-10 days before starting this medicine to avoid precipitated withdrawal.
2
Monitor liver function tests at baseline and periodically during treatment, especially in the first few months.
3
Advise patients to carry a medical alert card stating they are on naltrexone, as it can block emergency opioid pain relief.
4
Combine this medicine with counselling and behavioural therapy for the best outcomes in addiction treatment.
5
Warn patients about the risk of dizziness and advise them to avoid driving until they know how the medicine affects them.
6
Instruct patients to avoid alcohol and any opioid-containing medications, including cough syrups.
7
Discuss the importance of adherence and the consequences of missing doses with the patient.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Opioid craving
This medicine is commonly prescribed to reduce opioid cravings.
Likely Use
Alcohol craving
This medicine is used to reduce alcohol craving and reward.
Likely Use
Pain
This medicine is not a painkiller and may block opioid pain relief.
Not Primary
Fever
This medicine is not used to treat fever.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is rapidly and almost completely absorbed after oral administration. However, it undergoes significant first-pass metabolism in the liver, which reduces the amount that reaches the bloodstream unchanged.
DistributionThis medicine is widely distributed throughout the body tissues. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and the placenta. It is also found in breast milk.
Protein BindingApproximately 21% of this medicine binds to plasma proteins, mainly albumin.
MetabolismThis medicine is extensively metabolised in the liver, primarily to 6-beta-naltrexol, which is also an active metabolite. The metabolism involves reduction and conjugation pathways.
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 mainly excreted by the kidneys. About 60% of a dose is eliminated in urine, and a smaller amount is eliminated in faeces.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of this medicine is approximately 5% to 40% due to extensive first-pass metabolism. It varies between individuals.
Onset of ActionThe blocking effect on opioid receptors begins within 1 hour of taking an oral dose.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration of naltrexone is reached about 1 hour after oral administration, and the active metabolite peaks at about 1 to 2 hours.
Duration of ActionA single 50 mg dose provides opioid blockade for approximately 24 to 72 hours, depending on the individual. The full blocking effect may last up to 72 hours, but the usual dosing interval is once daily.

How It Works

This medicine works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain and other parts of the body. It attaches to the same receptors that opioids and endorphins normally activate, but it does not activate them. By occupying these receptors, it prevents opioids from producing their effects, such as pain relief and euphoria. For alcohol dependence, the exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed to reduce the pleasurable and rewarding effects of alcohol by interfering with the brain's reward pathways. This helps reduce the desire to drink.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to opioid receptors: This medicine binds strongly to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and body without activating them.
2
Blockade of opioid effects: By occupying the receptors, it prevents opioids from binding and producing pain relief or euphoria.
3
Reduction of alcohol reward: It interferes with the brain's reward system, reducing the pleasurable effects of alcohol and lowering the urge to drink.
4
Prevention of relapse: The blocking effect helps discourage impulsive use of opioids or alcohol because the expected high is no longer experienced.

💡 How to Take naltrex 50mg tablet

Strength: Naltrexone 50 mg immediate-release tablet.

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3You may take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce nausea.
4Take it at the same time each day to help you remember.
5Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor advises.
6Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 50 mg taken once daily. However, the exact dose and duration must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, your age, weight, liver and kidney function, and response to treatment. Some patients may be started on a lower dose or may need a different schedule. Do not adjust the dose without medical advice. This medicine is usually taken as part of a comprehensive treatment programme that includes counselling and behavioural therapy.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine. Dose selection should be cautious, and liver and kidney function should be monitored. Consult your doctor for individualized dosing.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with mild to moderate kidney impairment, no dose adjustment is usually needed. In severe kidney impairment, this medicine should be used with caution, and dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentThis medicine is contraindicated in patients with severe liver disease or acute hepatitis. In mild to moderate liver impairment, use with caution and monitor liver function closely. Dose adjustment may be required. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 50 mg for the tablet formulation. Higher doses may increase the risk of liver toxicity and are not recommended.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset and nausea.
Grapefruit juice
Avoid large amounts
May affect liver enzymes and alter drug levels.

⏰ 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 naltrex 50mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (10-20%))
Take with food and drink plenty of water. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Consult your doctor if it is severe or persistent.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Get adequate rest. Avoid driving if you feel very tired.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Insomnia (Common (5-10%))
Practice good sleep hygiene. Consult your doctor if it continues.
Abdominal pain (Common (5-10%))
Take with food. If pain is severe, seek medical advice.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Liver injury (hepatotoxicity) (Uncommon (1-5%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if you experience swelling of face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash.
Depression and suicidal thoughts (Uncommon (1-5%))
Contact your doctor immediately if you feel persistently sad or have thoughts of harming yourself.
Opioid withdrawal (if taken too soon after opioid use) (Common if not opioid-free)
Seek immediate medical help if you experience severe vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle cramps, or agitation after taking this medicine.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Pneumonitis (lung inflammation)
Seek medical attention if you develop new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
Eosinophilic pneumonia
Report any breathing difficulties or fever to your doctor immediately.
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
Consult a doctor if you notice unusual bruising or bleeding.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Morphine Major
Codeine Major
Tramadol Major
Thioridazine Major
Disulfiram Moderate
Fluconazole Moderate
Paracetamol (high dose) Moderate
Antacids Minor
Diuretics Minor
Warfarin Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Opioid analgesics (e.g., morphine, codeine, tramadol)
  • Opioid-containing cough and cold medicines
  • Thioridazine

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Disulfiram
  • Hepatotoxic drugs (e.g., paracetamol in high doses, methotrexate)
  • CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine. Although this medicine is used to treat alcohol dependence, drinking alcohol while on it can increase the risk of liver damage and may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. It can also cause drowsiness, dizziness, and increased heart rate. If you are struggling with alcohol cravings, speak to your doctor about additional support.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Current opioid use or opioid dependence.","Acute opioid withdrawal.","Severe liver disease or acute hepatitis.","Known hypersensitivity to naltrexone or any component of the tablet.","Patients who are receiving opioid analgesics for pain."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not take this medicine if you are currently using opioids; severe withdrawal can occur.","This medicine may cause liver damage; report symptoms like yellowing of eyes or skin immediately.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.","May cause dizziness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not share this medicine with others.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.","Carry a medical alert card stating you are on naltrexone.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally not recommended during breastfeeding because it may cause opioid withdrawal in a nursing infant. Consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine alone has not been associated with serious toxicity in most cases. However, if a large amount is taken, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. If the person is also taking opioids, the combination can be dangerous. Contact a poison control centre or go to the nearest emergency department.

⏰ 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 two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before starting this medicine, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney problems, or a history of depression or suicidal thoughts. You must be opioid-free for at least 7 to 10 days before taking this medicine, as taking it while opioids are still in your system can cause sudden and severe withdrawal. Do not use any opioid-containing medicines, including cough syrups and painkillers, while on this medicine. Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of liver damage and reduce the effectiveness of treatment. Use reliable contraception if you are a woman of childbearing age, as this medicine may not be safe during pregnancy. Carry a medical alert card or wear a bracelet stating that you are on naltrexone, so that emergency staff can make safe decisions if you are ever unconscious or in an accident. Regular liver function tests may be needed, especially in the first few months. Never share this medicine with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.

👴 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. Liver and kidney function should be monitored more closely. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on individual response.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor before starting or continuing this medicine. It is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed. Effective contraception is advised while taking this medicine.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anaesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery. It can block the effects of opioid painkillers, so alternative pain management strategies may be needed. Do not stop the medicine without medical advice.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Tell your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may interfere with opioid-based pain relief. Your dentist may need to adjust pain management plans.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Attend all counselling and support group sessions as recommended.
🥗
Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise to support overall well-being.
😴
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs completely.
💧
Get adequate sleep and manage stress through relaxation techniques.
🧘
Build a strong support network of family and friends.
🌞
Keep a diary of your cravings and triggers to discuss with your doctor.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue in some people. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require alertness until you know how the medicine affects you. If you feel dizzy during exercise, stop and rest.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Include lean proteins and healthy fats.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid alcohol completely.
Limit caffeine if it increases anxiety or insomnia.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or fatigue, 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. With treatment, many people are able to return to normal work and social activities.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly may increase the risk of relapse. Your doctor will decide when it is appropriate to stop based on your progress and overall treatment plan. If you experience serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately for advice.

📅 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 risk of liver injury. Some patients may experience persistent nausea, headache, or sleep disturbances. It is important to continue counselling and lifestyle changes for the best outcomes. Periodic review with your doctor is necessary to assess the ongoing need for treatment.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cognitive behavioural therapy

Helps identify and change thought patterns and behaviours related to substance use.

Evidence: Well-established
Support groups

Peer support groups can provide encouragement and accountability.

Evidence: Well-established
Acamprosate

Another medication used for alcohol dependence that may be an alternative.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are due for surgery or a procedure, inform your doctor that you are taking this medicine, as it may affect pain management.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in the original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture

❌ DON'T

Do not store in the 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 hand luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes. If you are crossing time zones, continue taking your dose at the same time each day as much as possible; if the time difference is large, consult your doctor for advice on adjusting the schedule. Store the medicine at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Check the customs regulations of your destination country regarding prescription medicines, and carry a doctor&#039;s letter if needed.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 38-year-old man with a history of opioid dependence
After completing detox, he was started on this medicine. He remained opioid-free for 6 months and reported that the cravings were much less intense. He attended regular counselling sessions and found the combination very helpful.
💡 Lesson: This medicine works best when combined with counselling and a strong support system.
👤 A 45-year-old woman with alcohol dependence
She started this medicine after a relapse. Within a few weeks, she noticed that she no longer felt the same pleasure from drinking, which helped her stay away from alcohol. She did experience some nausea initially, but it settled after taking the tablet with food.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food can reduce nausea, and the reduced reward from alcohol helps maintain abstinence.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: The blocking effect on opioid receptors starts within about 1 hour, but the full benefits for preventing relapse may take several weeks as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Q: Can I take this medicine if I am still using opioids?

A: No, you must be opioid-free for at least 7-10 days before starting this medicine to avoid severe withdrawal.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you remember within 12 hours, take it as soon as possible. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Does this medicine cause weight gain?

A: Weight gain is not a common side effect of this medicine. However, individual responses may vary. Consult your doctor if you notice significant changes.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine on my own?

A: No, you should not stop without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly may increase the risk of relapse. Your doctor will advise you on the appropriate duration of treatment.

🤔 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 other medicines?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe during pregnancy?
  • How long does it stay in my system?

🔄 Substitutes for naltrex 50mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Naltima 50 tablet can be taken immediately after stopping opioids.
    Fact: You must be opioid-free for at least 7-10 days before starting this medicine to avoid severe withdrawal.
  • Myth: Naltima 50 tablet is a cure for addiction.
    Fact: It is a treatment that helps prevent relapse but should be combined with counselling and lifestyle changes.
  • Myth: Naltima 50 tablet can be used for pain relief.
    Fact: It does not provide pain relief and can block the effects of opioid painkillers.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Naltrexone 50 mg tablet (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Naltima 50 tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Naltima 50 tablet","active_ingredient":"Naltrexone 50 mg","use":"Opioid and alcohol dependence","dose":"50 mg once daily"},{"medicine":"Naltrexone 25 mg","active_ingredient":"Naltrexone 25 mg","use":"Opioid and alcohol dependence","dose":"25 mg once daily, may be increased"}]

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