Nalmefene
What is Nalmefene?
Nalmefene is an opioid antagonist that acts on the same area of the brain that opioid drugs do. It binds to these receptors but does not activate them, the result of which is that it prevents the body from responding to the effects of opioids and endorphins.
Nalmefene is sold under the brand names Selincro and Revex.
Taking nalmefene
Take nalmefene tablets exactly as your doctor tells you to. Take one tablet a day on each day that you anticipate drinking alcohol. The tablet is best taken 1-2 hours before you drink alcohol, but if you are not able to do this, take it as soon as you can.
Do not take more than one tablet per day.
Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water – do not crush or break the tablet. You can take nalmefene before or after food.
How long will it take to work?
The effects of Nalmefene are usually apparent after one to two hours, typically lasting for between twelve and twenty-four hours, although in some instances it can be longer.
How does nalmefene work?
Nalmefene works by antagonising those receptors in the brain responsible for producing the body’s feel-good chemical, dopamine. This prevents the alcohol-induced release of this chemical, resulting in the reduced desire to continue drinking.
Who prescribes nalmefene and when?
One of our recovery workers and someone from our clinical team will give you a full health and wellbeing assessment. If the assessment shows that nalmefene could be good for you, we’ll prescribe it. You will need to have a blood test to check how your liver is working and a urine screen or other test to show you are free of opioids before we can prescribe you nalmefene.
If you’re on an ongoing prescription, this will be looked after by either your local service or your doctor.
What Are the Side Effects of Nalmefene?
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Headache
Things to know about Nalmefene
Nalmefene does not prevent alcohol intoxication. It is not intended as a substance to aid abstinence. It is intended to aid the reduction of alcohol co