Understanding Naltrexone: Why Some People Don't Get the Desired Results

TLDRLearn about naltrexone, its effects, and why some individuals may not experience the desired outcomes. Side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort and strange intoxication feelings, can vary between people. Within the first month of usage, if there are no improvements, alternative medications should be considered.

Key insights

💊Naltrexone is a complex drug that affects different receptor systems in the body, leading to varying responses in individuals.

🤔Some people may experience strange intoxication feelings and gastrointestinal discomfort when taking naltrexone, which could be due to its effects on specific receptors.

📆The desired effects of naltrexone should be noticeable within the first month of usage. If no improvements occur by then, it may be necessary to explore alternative medications.

⚠️Increasing the dosage of naltrexone can come with risks, including potential liver problems. Professional medical guidance is advised when adjusting the dosage.

💡Naltrexone is generally safe at doses below 100 milligrams, with potential side effects being minimal. Any adverse effects should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Q&A

Why do some people experience strange intoxication feelings when taking naltrexone?

Naltrexone affects different receptors in the body, including those that mediate pleasure and discomfort. For some individuals, it may increase the effects of receptors associated with discomfort, leading to these unusual feelings.

Why do some people have gastrointestinal discomfort when using naltrexone?

Naltrexone has effects on opioid receptors in the gut, which can result in symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach discomfort. Adjusting the dosage under medical supervision may help alleviate these side effects.

How long should I give naltrexone to see if it's working for me?

Generally, it's recommended to evaluate the effectiveness of naltrexone within the first month of usage. If no improvements are observed by then, it may be necessary to explore alternative medications.

Can I increase the dosage of naltrexone if I don't see the desired results?

Increasing the dosage of naltrexone should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Higher doses come with risks, including potential liver problems, which should be monitored through regular blood tests.

Is naltrexone safe to use at lower doses?

Naltrexone is generally safe at doses below 100 milligrams, with minimal side effects. However, any concerns or adverse effects should be discussed with a knowledgeable healthcare professional.

Timestamped Summary

00:00In this video, Dr. Mendelsohn discusses naltrexone and why some people may not get the desired results when using it.

04:00Naltrexone can have side effects, including strange intoxication feelings and gastrointestinal discomfort, which vary between individuals.

07:00While naltrexone may initially be effective, some individuals may experience neutral or negative effects over time, indicating the need for alternative medications.

08:40It is important to consult a healthcare professional when considering dosage adjustments, as increasing the dosage of naltrexone can pose risks, such as liver problems.