What’s It Like to Drink Alcohol While on Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a medication used to help people reduce or stop drinking alcohol. It works by blocking the pleasurable effects (endorphins) you get from drinking, which in turn helps reduce cravings and break the cycle of addiction. This makes it easier to cut back or quit entirely.
Unlike medications such as Antabuse, naltrexone does not make you sick if you drink. You can drink alcohol while taking naltrexone—but it will likely feel different.
How Does Naltrexone Work for Alcohol Use?
Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks opioid receptors in the brain. When you drink alcohol, these receptors are usually activated and release feel-good chemicals like endorphins. Naltrexone prevents this release, reducing the rewarding effects of alcohol.
As a result, drinking while on naltrexone feels dull or unsatisfying. This blunted reward response can lead to reduced cravings, fewer binge episodes, and increased control over your drinking habits.
✅ Quick summary: Naltrexone helps reduce alcohol cravings and blocks the buzz. You can still drink, but it won’t feel the same.
Can You Drink Alcohol While on Naltrexone?
Yes, you can drink while taking naltrexone. In fact, some people begin taking the medication while still drinking as a way to gradually reduce their intake. Over time, the medication helps weaken the connection between alcohol and pleasure, making it easier to cut back or stop altogether.
However, it’s important to:
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed
- Avoid skipping doses to “feel the buzz”
- Stick to your treatment plan to ensure long-term results
⚠️ Reminder: Naltrexone reduces the reward of alcohol, not its impairing effects. You can still get drunk, have poor coordination, and experience hangovers.
What Does Drinking on Naltrexone Feel Like?
Most people describe the experience as underwhelming:
“I had a beer, but I didn’t feel the urge for a second one.”
“The buzz just wasn’t there.”
“It tastes the same, but I don’t get anything out of it.”
While it may not make you feel sick, naltrexone can make drinking feel pointless. Over time, many people find they naturally reduce their alcohol use or stop altogether.
🎯 Goal: Diminish the cycle of reward and craving.
Will Naltrexone Make Me Sick If I Drink?
No—unlike Antabuse (disulfiram), naltrexone doesn’t cause nausea or vomiting when mixed with alcohol. However, some people report mild side effects like:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
These are typically temporary and fade after a few days of use.
How Long Does Naltrexone Stay in Your System?
- Half-life of naltrexone: 4 to 13 hours
- Active metabolite (6β-naltrexol): Up to 24–48 hours
This means the medication can block the effects of alcohol for a day or more after a dose. It’s best to take it daily or an hour before drinking, depending on your treatment plan.
Download Our Naltrexone Guide
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Does Naltrexone Make You Sleepy or Tired?
Some people experience drowsiness or fatigue, especially in the first week. This tends to subside as your body adjusts. If it persists, ask your doctor whether taking it at night might help.
🕒 Best time to take naltrexone: Follow your provider’s guidance. Some prefer morning to stay consistent, others night to avoid fatigue.
How Long Does It Take for Naltrexone to Work?
- Most people notice reduced cravings within a few hours of their first dose.
- Full benefits are typically seen over a few weeks to a few months.
This timeline can vary depending on how often you drink, your dosage, and whether you combine it with therapy or coaching.
💡 Pro tip: Combine medication with behavior support for best results.
Does Naltrexone Work for Everyone?
Not always. Naltrexone is effective for many, but some may not respond or may experience unpleasant side effects like:
- Nausea
- Anxiety
- Mood changes (rare)
If it doesn’t work for you, other options are available, including acamprosate, disulfiram, or therapy-based approaches.
Does Naltrexone Help With Alcohol Withdrawal?
No—naltrexone is not used to manage acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms like tremors, sweating, or seizures. If you’re dependent and planning to quit suddenly, seek medical supervision.
Can You Still Get Drunk on Naltrexone?
Yes. Naltrexone blocks pleasure, not impairment. You may still:
- Feel intoxicated
- Have delayed reflexes
- Experience memory lapses or hangovers
Always drink responsibly and follow your treatment goals.
Is Naltrexone Addictive?
No. Naltrexone is non-addictive, has no withdrawal, and doesn’t produce a high. It works on opioid receptors, but it doesn’t activate them—it blocks them.
How to Get the Best Results with Naltrexone
- Take it consistently (daily or before drinking)
- Combine with therapy or coaching
- Track your drinking habits and cravings
- Be honest with your doctor about side effects
At Ria Health, we provide comprehensive care plans that combine naltrexone with coaching, telehealth access to physicians, and digital tracking tools—all from your smartphone.
Final Thoughts: What Happens If You Drink Alcohol While Taking Naltrexone?
Naltrexone won’t make you sick—but it will likely make drinking less satisfying. This is how it helps you reduce or quit drinking over time. With consistent use and the right support, it can be a powerful tool to take back control of your relationship with alcohol.
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