Naltrexone: What is the ‘Ozempic for alcohol’ and how does it work?

People who are struggling with drinking problems could soon use a new £3 “miracle” pill to help them fight their cravings.

The drug, called naltrexone, can help those who may suffer from addiction issues by blocking “feelings of euphoria” that are often associated with substance abuse.

The drug – primarily used by doctors to manage alcohol use or opioid use disorder by doctors to help reduce cravings – has been dubbed the “Ozempic for drinking” as it helps people to stop or lower their intake of addictive substances.

Here is everything we know about this medication.

Naltrexone is a medication primarily used to manage alcohol use or opioid use disorder by reducing cravings.

It works by blocking the euphoric and sedative effects of alcohol and opioids such as heroin and morphine. Naltrexone binds and blocks opioid receptors and suppresses opioid cravings.

Naltrexone is not an opioid, and is not addictive, so does not cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop using it. 

If taken an hour before consuming alcohol, the drug can have a high success rate at getting patients to drastically reduce how much alcohol they consume as it helps fight cravings.

Naltrexone is used as an off-switch for problem drinkers.

The NHS states that if the drug is recommended, patients should be aware that it also stops painkillers that contain opioids from working, including morphine and codeine.

A course of naltrexone can last up to six months, although it may sometimes be longer.

The NHS says: “The treatment options for alcohol misuse depend on the extent of your drinking and whether you’re trying to drink less (moderation) or give up drinking completely (abstinence).”

Yes. Experts say some can be seen but they are not deemed to be serious but if you feel unwell while taking naltrexone, you are told to stop taking it immediately and seek advice from your GP or care team by the NHS.

Some side effects can include:

At present it is not available on the NHS, but is often used in private clinics which addicts can attend to help with their problems.

Naltrexone was first approved for use back in 1984, but there have been licensing issues with the medication which has made it unavailable for NHS doctors to prescribe.