Can you get Naltrexone Without a Prescription?

In 2019, over 10 million people misused opioids. If current trends are any indication, these numbers have only increased since. Despite this, 80% of people with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) do not have access to medication-assisted treatments (MAT). 

Naltrexone is an effective medication that is FDA-approved for treating OUD, but is it available without a prescription (over-the-counter)? Let's find out.  

Why is Naltrexone not Available Over-The-Counter in the U.S.?

Naltrexone is not an available over-the-counter drug in the U.S. This is for several reasons:

• Using Naltrexone while opioids or alcohol are in the system can induce withdrawal
• Naltrexone blocks the effects of opioids. As a result, patients may take increased quantities of opioids to achieve the same effect. This raises the risk of serious injury, overdose, coma, and death. 
• Naltrexone has specific dosing requirements, which can vary on a case-by-case basis. Thus, you should always take Naltrexone under the supervision of a trained medical professional. 
• Naltrexone use can cause a series of potentially dangerous side effects. 

Is Naltrexone a Controlled Substance?

The FDA classifies Naltrexone as a Category C substance. This means, although it is not a controlled substance, doctors should only prescribe it if the benefits outweigh the risks. 

Who can Prescribe Naltrexone?

Only licensed medical practitioners, such as those at Confidant Health, can prescribe Naltrexone. 

The Risks of Buying Naltrexone Without a Prescription

Despite the tight regulations around buying Naltrexone off-market, some people still manage to buy it. Here’s why this is not a good idea: 

• Lack of Quality Control

Medications bought off-market are unreliable. There is no way of knowing whether the Naltrexone has expired, is damaged, or is being sold under a fake name. Dosage labels are also often misleading. This can be dangerous if you accidentally take a larger than recommended dose. 

• The Drug Without a Plan

As discussed, Naltrexone requirements vary on an individual basis. What works for someone else, may not work for you. So, buying Naltrexone without a tailored plan from your healthcare provider can be counter-productive. 

• It’s Expensive

Off-market medication suppliers are an unregulated industry. Their Naltrexone prices typically fluctuate based on demand, often making it an expensive investment. In addition, you’ll also have to front delivery charges, if you choose to go with an online supplier.  

• Your Medication may be Delayed or Might Never Arrive

You can expect shipment delays if you order Naltrexone from across the country (or globe). Customs and Border Protection (CBP) often intercepts pharmaceutical shipments and each routine check can take anywhere between 30 to 60 days. They may also seize your shipment if it’s from another country. So, you may not receive your medication at all.

How to get a Naltrexone Prescription?

Getting a Naltrexone prescription is a straightforward process in the U.S. 

• First, set up an appointment with a qualified healthcare practitioner. You can set one up by clicking here.
• During the appointment, discuss your concerns and expectations with your provider. Please do not hold back any information that relates to your health; this will enable your doctor to make an informed decision. 
• Your doctor will prescribe Naltrexone if they think it is in your best interest. 

Can You Get Naltrexone Online?

With a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional, you can get Naltrexone online from any major pharmacy. Examples include:

• CVS
• Kroger
• Walgreens
• Walmart

Some online pharmacies may require you to upload your prescription so that they can verify it. But other than that, it is a simple process.

Naltrexone at Confidant Health

Confidant Health combines the expertise of its health professionals with the latest technology to provide you with an unmatched experience. All within the comfort of your home. 

Get in touch with us today and we’ll set you up with everything you need to overcome your substance misuse disorder.