Naltrexone is a medication that assists with weight loss and healthy weight management. Effective and non-habit-forming, Naltrexone works to reduce the appeal of food while also increasing hormone levels in the body. These things combine to help address the physical and mental concerns that can accompany excessive weight, assisting in the formation of new habits and more productive lifestyle choices and helping to improve overall health and happiness.
If you are ready to take your first steps towards healthy weight management or if other weight loss methods have failed to produce results, please use our site to find a provider in your area and let us help you begin your journey towards optimal health today.
What is Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a medication that reduces the appeal of food and assists in increasing hormone levels throughout the body. Increased hormone levels help to build lean muscle, reduce fatigue, and improve physiological responses, allowing Naltrexone to provide comprehensive weight management support.
Belonging to a class of drugs known as opiate antagonists, Naltrexone is particularly useful in weight management when paired with lifestyle changes such as increased exercise and slight caloric reduction. Additional therapeutic services, including counseling, may also be helpful in some cases. This is best determined by your prescribing physician.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Naltrexone?
Ideal candidates for Naltrexone are people who are overweight, significantly overweight, or struggling with weight gain related to various medical conditions. However, certain conditions, including active liver disease, may diminish your candidacy, as well as certain medications that may need to be avoided during treatment. Therefore, being upfront with your physician about the herbs, supplements, and medicines you take will be necessary to assess your candidacy.
Naltrexone is non-habit forming and is generally considered safe for use in overweight individuals. The best way to learn if you are a good candidate is through a one-on-one consultation with a Naltrexone provider.
What Are the Benefits of Naltrexone?
Naltrexone assists in healthy weight management. This, in turn, improves lives.
In a study published by the National Institutes of Health, Naltrexone, combined with lifestyle changes and modest calorie reduction, was shown to produce “clinically significant weight loss.” Furthermore, this has been shown to be the case even when weight gain is medically related.
Losing weight can positively impact both body and mind, including improved focus, better sleep, and a greater range of motion. Equally important, losing weight reduces risks for several deadly diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is considered safe and has been shown to benefit people struggling with excessive weight. It is not, however, without minor risks. These include:
- Nausea and Dizziness
- Headache and Bone/Joint Pain
- Sleep Difficulties and Restlessness
- Abdominal Cramps
- Muscle Aches
These side effects are uncommon and are typically very mild. Risks associated with Naltrexone are much less severe than the health consequences of obesity.
Although rare, severe side effects of Naltrexone may include liver damage. Let your provider know if you have a history of liver disease or have had elevated liver function tests in the past.
How Often Should You Take Naltrexone?
Naltrexone pellets are implanted in the subcutaneous tissue just like bio-identical hormone pellets. These pellets, depending on the dose, will block receptors for approximately 10-12 weeks. Your physician will determine the proper dosage and frequency of your treatment. Long-acting formulations, such as pellets, overcome issues of poor adherence that you may experience with oral naltrexone tablets. Implanted naltrexone helps any motivated person, not just highly motivated persons.
Can You Combine Naltrexone With Other Medications or Supplements?
Naltrexone should not be used with opiates, including cough syrup and other medications that may contain codeine. Alcohol and narcotics must be avoided while on Naltrexone as well.
There are no known interactions with vitamins or minerals. Still, it is best to always inform your physician of the medications, supplements, herbs, and illicit drugs – including marijuana – you are using. This helps to guard against potential complications and can assist in more predictable and pleasing outcomes.
FAQ
How Is Naltrexone Administered?
Naltrexone can be administered through an injection or be taken orally via pill. It depends on what the doctor recommends and your personal preference.
How Long Does Naltrexone Need to be Taken?
The duration of treatment varies from patient to patient. While some people may take it for several months, others may need to take it for longer periods of time. Your duration of treatment will be decided based on your needs and what your healthcare providers feel is best.
Can Naltrexone Be Combined With Other Hormone Treatments?
Similar to other medications, Naltrexone may interact with other drugs, including hormone treatments. For this reason, it is important to let your healthcare provider know all of the medication you are currently taking and whether or not you are considering hormone therapy. Together, you can then assess both the risks and benefits of Naltrexone and decide whether it is the right choice for you.
Is Naltrexone a Replacement for Weight Loss Therapy?
No, Naltrexone is not a replacement for weight loss therapy. It is important to note that Naltrexone is primarily used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence. However, in some cases, it is used off-label for weight management.
Can You Overdose on Naltrexone?
Although rare, it is possible to overdose on Naltrexone if it is taken in excess. That is why it is imperative to use Naltrexone only as directed by a licensed healthcare provider.
Is it Safe to Take Naltrexone While Pregnant?
The safety of Naltrexone therapy while pregnant is not well-established. As such, be sure to inform your healthcare provider you are pregnant or are planning on becoming pregnant in the near future.
Find a Provider
If you are ready to learn how Naltrexone, BHRT, and lifestyle changes can help you lose weight and keep it off, please use our directory to find an experienced physician in your area today. Pellecome supplements and products are available through highly trained and experienced doctors, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals dedicated to helping people live their best lives.
