Questions and Answers
What is the drug classification of ReVia?
What is the initial oral dose of naltrexone for opioid dependence?
25 mg
What is the pharmacological action of naltrexone?
Blocks the opioid receptor sites
What are the therapeutic uses of naltrexone?
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Which of the following is NOT a side effect of naltrexone?
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What interaction should be noted when using naltrexone?
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What should patients avoid while on naltrexone?
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What must be done before starting naltrexone therapy?
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What is an important monitoring concern when administering naltrexone?
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What should be monitored besides hepatotoxicity during naltrexone therapy?
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What is an indicator of medication effectiveness for naltrexone?
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Study Notes
Drug Classification
- Naltrexone, sold under the brand name ReVia, is classified as an opioid antagonist.
Dose Range
- For opioid dependence, the oral initial dose is 25 mg within the first hour; if no withdrawal occurs, an additional 25 mg can be given. Following this, a total of 350 mg/week can be administered in various dosing combinations.
- For intramuscular (IM) administration, the dose is 380 mg every 4 weeks.
- For alcohol dependence, the oral dose is either 50 mg daily or 350 mg/week with various combinations. The IM route is the same as for opioid dependence at 380 mg every 4 weeks.
Pharmacological Action
- Naltrexone works by blocking opioid receptor sites, preventing the effects of opioids.
Therapeutic Uses
- Primarily used for the management of opioid and alcohol dependence to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Side Effects/Adverse Effects
- Possible side effects include suicidal ideation, anxiety, fatigue, headache, insomnia, nervousness, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Serious adverse effects might include eosinophilic pneumonia (especially with injection), injection site reactions, hepatotoxicity, and sexual dysfunction.
Medication/Food Interactions
- Naltrexone can interfere with the therapeutic effects of opioid analgesics, antidiarrheals, and antitussives.
- There is a risk of increased central nervous system depression when combined with thioridazine.
Nursing Interventions/Client Education
- Patients should notify their healthcare provider if they experience increased hostility, panic, mania, depression, or suicidal thoughts.
- Women are advised to avoid pregnancy during treatment.
- Attempting to overcome naltrexone's effects by using greater amounts of opioids can be fatal.
Nursing Administration (Concerns)
- A negative naloxone challenge test is essential before initiating naltrexone therapy.
- Monitor patients for hepatotoxicity, including regular checks on liver enzymes and platelet counts.
- Patients must be opioid-free for at least 7 days before starting naltrexone. Administration is contraindicated in those experiencing active opiate withdrawal.
Evaluation of Medication Effectiveness
- Effectiveness is assessed based on the management and reduction of symptoms related to alcoholism and opioid use.
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Description
Test your knowledge about ReVia (naltrexone) with these flashcards. This quiz covers important aspects such as drug classification and dosing for opioid and alcohol dependence. Perfect for medical students and professionals looking to reinforce their understanding of this medication.
