My husband has been prescribed NALTREXONE and is still drinking,will it make him sick?

I have only a limited knowledge of the ins and outs of naltrexone, but I'll pass on what I do know. Naltrexone is a medication that BLOCKS the effects of alcohol and opiate drugs. Serious trouble comes when the person becomes determined to gain the "high" from drinking - and thus, drinks more and more, to try to gain the full effect. (Same problem with opiates, btw.) The risk for overdose - alcohol poisoning - coma is increased, because of this behavior.

My experience with naltrexone is limited to the clients I work with in a treatment center; therefore, the option of drinking while taking it isn't a likely concern.

If I were you, I'd speak to his doctor about what he is doing, as the doctor can better advise you if he should continue to take naltrexone.

Expand this post...

Sometimes, it takes dozens of attempts at rehab before lasting sobriety occurs. In my opinion, his best help would be in attending daily AA meetings. In the meantime, you could probably benefit tremendously from some AlAnon meetings, designed for the loved ones of alcoholics. Even if he isn't doing AA or staying sober, AlAnon would help you through the turmoil of living with an alcoholic.

God bless.