Revia (naltrexone): what it does, how to use it, and how to buy it safely

Revia is the brand name for naltrexone, a medication that blocks opioid receptors and helps reduce cravings for alcohol and opioids. It can stop the effects of opioids for a day or more and lower the urge to drink for people with alcohol use disorder. That makes it useful, but it also demands care: the wrong timing or mixing with opioids causes serious problems.

How Revia works and common dosing

Naltrexone blocks the brain’s opioid receptors so opioid drugs don’t produce the usual high. For alcohol, it lowers cravings and can cut the number of heavy drinking days. The usual oral dose is 50 mg once daily. Some people start with a test dose or with clinic-based supervision. If switching from opioid use, most guidelines require you be opioid-free for at least 7–10 days to avoid precipitated withdrawal. There’s also an injectable form (extended-release naltrexone) given once a month by a healthcare provider.

Don’t guess on dose. Your doctor will pick the right option based on your health, other meds, and treatment goals. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one—don’t double up.

Safety, side effects, and buying tips

Common side effects include nausea, headache, fatigue, anxiety, and sleep trouble. More seriously, naltrexone can raise liver enzymes; people with active liver disease need close monitoring and sometimes a different plan. If you feel severe abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing skin or eyes, stop the drug and contact a doctor right away.

Never take Revia with opioid pain medicine or if you haven’t completed opioid withdrawal—doing so can cause sudden and severe withdrawal. Tell any provider you see that you’re on naltrexone before surgery or when you might get opioid-containing meds. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should talk with their clinician; safety decisions depend on the situation.

Want to buy Revia online? Treat it like any prescription medicine. Always use a licensed pharmacy that asks for a prescription. Red flags: extremely low prices, no prescription required, or a pharmacy that won’t provide a physical address and phone contact. Check pharmacy accreditations, read recent reviews, and confirm they require a valid prescription. Our site has guides on checking pharmacy legitimacy and safe online buying—use those if you’re unsure.

Finally, combine medication with counseling or a support program when treating alcohol or opioid problems. Naltrexone helps, but it works best as part of a plan that includes regular follow-up and therapy. If something feels off while taking Revia, call your clinician—quick action prevents most problems.