Indications  

Revia is a prescribed medication used along with counseling and social support to help individuals who have quit alcohol and street drugs maintain their abstinence and avoid relapse. 

As an opiate antagonist, Revia works by diminishing alcohol cravings and inhibiting the effects of opiate medications and opioid street drugs. 

This medication is unsuitable for individuals actively using street drugs or consuming significant amounts of alcohol. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with Revia and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Should you have any concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

A urine test should be conducted prior to Revia treatment to assess recent opiate drug use. Your doctor may administer another medication (naloxone challenge test) to check for opiate use.  

Refrain from using any opiates for at least 7 days before taking Revia. Moreover, certain opiate drugs, such as methadone, may require discontinuation 10 to 14 days before starting this medication. 

The dosage of Revia is determined based on medical conditions and response to the treatment. Your doctor may initiate treatment with a lower dose, observing for any side effects or withdrawal symptoms before adjusting the dosage. 

This medication can be taken as directed by the doctor, either independently at home once daily or under supervision in a clinic or treatment center. In the latter case, doctors may adjust the dosage higher to be taken every 2-3 days for improved convenience in scheduling clinic appointments. 

For optimal results, take this medication exactly as directed. Do not modify the prescribed dosage, frequency of intake or discontinue its use without obtaining consent from your doctor. 

Notify your doctor in case you begin using drugs or alcohol again. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Revia. Notify your doctor right away if any of them persist or get worse. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain 
• Headache, dizziness, or drowsiness 
• Feeling anxious or nervous 
• Sleep problems (insomnia) 
• Muscle or joint pain 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea 
• Confusion, mood changes, crying, or hallucinations 
• Depression, thoughts about suicide, or self-harm 

Inform your doctor right away if you experience any of the serious side effects above. 

High doses of Revia can potentially cause liver damage. Discontinue this medication immediately and contact your doctor without delay if you experience the following: 

• Right-sided upper stomach pain 
• Vomiting 
• Loss of appetite 
• Dark urine 
• Clay-colored stools 
• Yellowing of skin or eyes 

The concurrent use of opioid medicine with Revia may trigger opioid withdrawal symptoms, including: 

• Opioid cravings 
• Sweating 
• Fever 
• Stomach pain 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Watery eyes 
• Runny or stuffy nose 
• Tingling sensation 
• Goosebumps 
• Body aches 
• Shaking 
• Muscle twitching 
• Sleep disturbances 
• Feelings of anxiety, depression, fear, restlessness, or unease 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Revia may occur. Seek prompt medical assistance if you experience indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Hives 
• Difficult breathing 
• Face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling 

Not all side effects of Revia are included in this list. Inform your doctor promptly if any unlisted effects are experienced. 

Cautions 

Before taking Revia, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to naltrexone or other medications. 

Consult your pharmacist for further information about Revia, as it may contain inactive ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Revia is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Current or recent use (in the last 7 to 14 days) of any type of opioid drug (e.g., morphine, methadone, buprenorphine) 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 

Inform all your healthcare providers about any current or newly initiated or discontinued medications, including prescription/non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to lower the risk of drug interaction with Revia. 

Some of the products that may interact with Revia include:  

• Dextromethorphan 
• Diarrhea medication (e.g., diphenoxylate) 
• Disulfiram 
• Opioid pain or cough relievers (e.g., codeine, hydrocodone) 
• Thioridazine 

Revia may affect specific lab tests, including drug tests, leading to potential false results. Inform lab personnel and all healthcare providers about your use of this medication. 

Following the administration of Revia, your body’s sensitivity to opioids will heighten. Subsequently, a reduced dosage of opioid medication will be necessary in future instances. Maintaining the previous dosage may result in an overdose or fatality. 

The use of Revia may cause impairment in thinking or reactions. Exercise caution when engaging in activities that demand alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. 

During pregnancy, Revia should be used only if necessary. Have a thorough discussion with your doctor about the risks and benefits involved. 

The transfer of naltrexone through breast milk is uncertain. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.