People who find themselves fighting drinking problems may quickly use a brand new £3 “miracle” tablet to assist them combat their cravings.
The drug, referred to as naltrexone, can assist those that might suffer from addiction issues by blocking “emotions of euphoria” which can be usually related to substance abuse.
The drug – primarily utilized by docs to handle alcohol use or opioid use dysfunction by docs to assist cut back cravings – has been dubbed the “Ozempic for ingesting” because it helps folks to cease or decrease their consumption of addictive substances.
Right here is every little thing we learn about this treatment.
Naltrexone is a medicine primarily used to handle alcohol use or opioid use dysfunction by reducing cravings.
It really works by blocking the euphoric and sedative results of alcohol and opioids such as heroin and morphine. Naltrexone binds and blocks opioid receptors and suppresses opioid cravings.
Naltrexone isn’t an opioid, and isn’t addictive, so doesn’t trigger withdrawal signs in the event you cease utilizing it.
If taken an hour earlier than consuming alcohol, the drug can have a excessive success charge at getting sufferers to drastically cut back how a lot alcohol they eat because it helps combat cravings.
Naltrexone is used as an off-switch for downside drinkers.
The NHS states that if the drug is beneficial, sufferers ought to be conscious that it additionally stops painkillers that comprise opioids from working, together with morphine and codeine.
A course of naltrexone can final as much as six months, though it might typically be longer.
Are there any unwanted effects?
The NHS says: “The remedy choices for alcohol misuse rely upon the extent of your ingesting and whether or not you are making an attempt to drink much less (moderation) or quit ingesting fully (abstinence).”
Sure. Specialists say some will be seen however they aren’t deemed to be severe however in the event you really feel unwell whereas taking naltrexone, you might be advised to cease taking it instantly and search recommendation out of your GP or care group by the NHS.
Some unwanted effects can embrace:
- nausea
- sleepiness
- headache
- dizziness
- vomiting
- decreased urge for food
Are you able to get it on the NHS?
At current it isn’t accessible on the NHS, however is commonly utilized in non-public clinics which addicts can attend to assist with their issues.
Naltrexone was first authorised to be used again in 1984, however there have been licensing points with the treatment which has made it unavailable for NHS docs to prescribe.
