Does Naltrexone Make You Sleepy? Side Effects & How to Manage Them
Taking the step toward using naltrexone in your recovery is a huge accomplishment, and it’s completely understandable to feel anxious about potential side effects. One of the most common questions we’re asked is: does naltrexone make you sleepy? It’s a very practical question when you’re dedicated to maintaining your daily life and energy. While some individuals may notice a mild, temporary feeling of drowsiness or fatigue, particularly when they first begin the medication, for most, these side effects are manageable and tend to fade as your body acclimatizes to the treatment.
Does Naltrexone Make You Sleepy?
Naltrexone can cause sleepiness in some people, though it’s not among the most common side effects. Research shows that extreme drowsiness occurred in about 2% of patients taking naltrexone tablets for alcohol use disorder, while dizziness affected 4%.
The experience varies from person to person. Some individuals feel more alert, while others notice mild fatigue, particularly when first starting treatment. Your response is unique to you, and that’s okay.
The injectable form of naltrexone (Vivitrol) shows slightly different patterns. Studies indicate that sedation occurred in 5% of patients receiving Vivitrol compared to 1% in the placebo group.
Whether you take the daily oral tablet or monthly injection, any drowsiness you experience usually improves as your body adapts to the medication, typically within two to four weeks.
Why Naltrexone May Cause Fatigue?
Understanding why naltrexone might make you feel tired can help you manage expectations and work with your healthcare provider effectively. Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in your brain, changing how your body responds to alcohol and opioids. As your brain adjusts to this new state, you may experience temporary fatigue. Your body also needs time to adapt to any new medication, and this adjustment can sometimes show up as tiredness or low energy.
Everyone metabolizes medications differently based on factors like age, liver health, and other medications. If you’re in early recovery, your body is healing from multiple changes simultaneously, which can naturally cause fatigue. This is a normal part of the recovery process, and most people find their energy levels return to normal within a few weeks.
Common Naltrexone Side Effects
Beyond sleepiness, naltrexone can cause several other side effects as your body adjusts to treatment. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and less anxious during your recovery journey. Common side effects include:
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or vivid dreams)
- Decreased appetite
- Stomach discomfort
Most of these side effects are mild and temporary, resolving within the first few weeks of treatment. If nausea is bothering you, taking naltrexone with food can help ease stomach-related symptoms. You can also talk to your healthcare provider about other medication-assisted treatment (MAT) options, like acamprosate or buprenorphine.
How to Manage Sleepiness on Naltrexone
If you’re experiencing drowsiness or fatigue while taking naltrexone, know that you’re not alone, and there are practical strategies that can help you feel more comfortable during treatment.
- Timing matters: Take it at dinnertime if drowsy or in the morning if it disrupts sleep.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support your body’s adjustment.
- Prioritize sleep: Aim for seven to nine hours nightly. Rest is essential for recovery.
- Avoid hazardous activities: Don’t drive until you know how it affects you.
- Be patient: Drowsiness typically fades within one to two weeks.
- Consider dosage adjustment: Talk to your provider if fatigue feels unmanageable.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
While mild drowsiness is usually nothing to worry about, certain symptoms require prompt medical attention. Contact your doctor if you feel tired or sleepy all the time, experience severe fatigue that interferes with daily activities, have excessive drowsiness that doesn’t improve after a few weeks, notice signs of depression or mood changes, or have thoughts of self-harm.
Seek immediate medical attention if you have stomach pain lasting more than a few days, dark-colored urine, or yellowing of the whites of your eyes, as these may indicate a serious liver problem.
Your concerns are valid, and your healthcare provider is there to help you navigate any challenges that arise.
Get Support Treatment at Monterey Bay Recovery
If you’re navigating naltrexone side effects or exploring medication-assisted treatment, Monterey Bay Recovery offers compassionate, evidence-based care for your journey. Contact us today to discover how our personalized approach can support your path to lasting wellness.
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FAQs About Naltrexone and What to Expect During Treatment
How common is sleepiness on naltrexone?
Sleepiness is possible but not very common. Only a small percentage of people experience noticeable drowsiness, and it often improves within a few weeks as the body adjusts.
How long does the tiredness usually last?
Most people notice improvement within one to two weeks, and often within the first month of treatment.
Does the injection (Vivitrol) cause more drowsiness than the pill?
Some studies show slightly higher rates of drowsiness with Vivitrol compared to oral tablets, but most cases are still mild and short-lived.
When should I take naltrexone if it makes me sleepy?
If you feel drowsy, taking it later in the day may help. If it disrupts sleep or causes restlessness, morning dosing may be better. Always check with your provider before making changes.
Can I drive or operate machinery while feeling tired on naltrexone?
Avoid driving or hazardous activities until you know how the medication affects you. If fatigue persists or feels unsafe, contact your provider.
Does naltrexone make you sleepy even if you take it exactly as prescribed?
It can, but it’s not typical. A small number of people feel mildly tired during the first week or two, even when taking naltrexone correctly. The drowsiness usually fades as your body adjusts.