What question did this study set out to answer?

To assess the safety and effectiveness of naltrexone in treating alcohol use disorder, particularly in patients with liver disease.

February 11, 2026

Naltrexone: A safe and effective standard of care in treating alcohol use disorder.

Key Points

To assess the safety and effectiveness of naltrexone in treating alcohol use disorder, particularly in patients with liver disease.
Analyzed prescription rates of naltrexone for AUD patients in Australia.
Evaluated the safety of naltrexone in patients with severe liver conditions.
Considered treatment initiation methods and dosing strategies.
Naltrexone is prescribed to fewer than 3% of patients with AUD.
Evidence supports naltrexone's safety for patients with severe alcohol-associated cirrhosis.
Naltrexone may effectively reduce alcohol consumption, indicating potential benefits despite some risks.

Abstract

Naltrexone is prescribed for fewer than 3% of patients with AUD in Australia, including patients with alcohol-related liver disease who access tertiary care and for whom treatment can be lifesaving. Evidence indicates that naltrexone is safe for patients with severe alcohol-associated cirrhosis. Naltrexone's safety in patients with severe acute hepatitis or acute-on-chronic liver failure remains unknown; however, naltrexone's ability to reduce alcohol consumption may outweigh any risks. Prescribers can align treatment with the patient's goal: naltrexone can be initiated with or without prior alcohol withdrawal, and targeted (non-daily) dosing is suitable for some patients.

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Cite This Study

Naren et al. (Sun,) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/698c1c22267fb587c655e581 https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.31128/ajgp-03-25-7617

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