Can a Person With Hepatitis C Take Naltrexone?

 





Naltrexone is a drug which is prescribed as a part of treatment for alcohol or any other opioid addiction in Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). But the question is that is administering Naltrexone is safe or not in case of Hepatitis infected person.

Due to its hepatotoxicity effects, Naltrexone may lead to the increased liver damage. But however in some cases physicians prescribe to take it which will increase the risk of liver damage in addition to Hepatitis C. The fact is that if a person infected with the Hepatitis C is an alcohol or opioid abuse then that will pose more threat than administering Naltrexone. Many Clinical studies revealed that Naltrexone is associated with the increased risk of underlying liver damage.

The route of administration of Naltrexone is through Intramuscular injection once in 4 weeks or every day in tablet form. The oral administration is suggested only in alcohol abuse treatment. But however before getting started with Naltrexone it  is important to consult a doctor and get aware of all the risks posed by it.

Naltrexone acts by blocking the euphoria and the sedation effects caused by alcohol or opioid consumption thus, reducing the craving for alcohol intake.  The increased levels of liver enzymes during the usage of Naltrexone indicate the extent of liver damage. However the consumption of alcohol and opioids are equally dangerous. Hence physician may suggest taking Naltrexone to prevent alcohol abuse in Hepatitis C patients.

Side effects of Naltrexone include

  • Jaundice- Yellowing of eyes and skin
  • Stomach ache
  • Dark colored urine
  • Severe fatigue

Naltrexone is a drug of choice to treat alcohol and opioid abuse. But before taking it consult a physician as it increases the risk of liver damage severely in persons infected with Hepatitis C. Hence people with Hepatitis C should follow precautions while administering Naltrexone.

Comments

  1. MATINA31 July 2021 at 07:03


    I was diagnosed as HEPATITIS B carrier in 2013 with fibrosis of the
    liver already present. I started on antiviral medications which
    reduced the viral load initially. After a couple of years the virus
    became resistant. I started on HEPATITIS B Herbal treatment from
    ULTIMATE LIFE CLINIC (www.ultimatelifeclinic.com) in March, 2020. Their
    treatment totally reversed the virus. I did another blood test after
    the 6 months long treatment and tested negative to the virus. Amazing
    treatment! This treatment is a breakthrough for all HBV carriers.

    ReplyDelete

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