Can I drink alcohol while on Vivitrol (naltrexone)?
In general, you should not drink alcohol while receiving Vivitrol (extended-release naltrexone) for alcohol dependence. Alcohol use can undermine treatment goals, and Vivitrol is meant to support abstinence by reducing alcohol’s rewarding effects. Drinking can also increase the risk of side effects and complications, especially if you drink heavily.
Why is alcohol a problem with Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is used to help prevent relapse in alcohol dependence by blocking opioid receptors that are involved in alcohol’s reward pathway. If you keep drinking, you’re continuing the behavior Vivitrol is intended to control, which can reduce the benefit of treatment and increase the chance of relapse.
What about side effects—are they worse with alcohol?
Mixing alcohol with naltrexone can make side effects harder to manage. Both can affect how you feel (for example, dizziness, nausea, headache). Alcohol can also worsen sleep, mood, and general functioning, which can interfere with recovery. If you have liver problems or drink heavily, the concern is higher because naltrexone requires caution with liver health.
Is any “small amount” of alcohol allowed?
If you’re asking because you want to drink occasionally, the safest, most consistent medical advice is to avoid alcohol altogether while you’re actively taking Vivitrol for alcohol dependence. Clinicians typically aim for complete abstinence during treatment, since drinking increases the odds of returning to harmful patterns.
What should I do if I already drank or I’m planning to drink?
If you drank before a planned injection, tell your prescriber. If you plan to drink, discuss it ahead of time so your treatment team can advise based on your situation (your diagnosis, your liver history, and how far along you are in treatment). Seek urgent care if you develop severe symptoms after drinking (such as confusion, fainting, severe vomiting, or trouble breathing).
When is alcohol use especially risky?
Alcohol is especially risky if you have:
- A history of heavy drinking or withdrawal
- Liver disease or elevated liver enzymes
- Other medications that also increase sedation or affect breathing
- A current opioid use issue (Vivitrol can cause serious precipitated withdrawal if opioids are involved)
If you tell me why you’re on Vivitrol (alcohol dependence vs. opioid dependence) and whether you’ve had any liver problems or heavy drinking recently, I can tailor the guidance more closely.