Naltrexone Disease Interactions

The use of naltrexone is contraindicated in patients with active hepatitis or hepatic failure. Naltrexone has caused direct hepatocellular injury when administered at doses less than or equal to 5 times the recommended once daily 50 mg dose. Therapy with naltrexone should be administered cautiously in patients with active hepatic disease. Clinical monitoring of transaminase levels prior to and during naltrexone therapy is recommended.

Opiate antagonists are metabolized by the liver (naltrexone to an active metabolite) and eliminated by the kidney. Hepatic and renal impairment may reduce the metabolism and clearance of opiate antagonists. Dosage adjustment for single dose administration is not necessary, however, repeated doses in patients with hepatic and/or renal dysfunction may require adjustment.