As a psychiatrist, I often discuss medications that can help manage various conditions, especially those related to substance use disorders. One such medication is naltrexone, an opioid blocker that is widely used for treating alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD). It can also play a role in chronic pain management and weight loss when combined with bupropion.

In this post, I'll explain how naltrexone works, its benefits, and important considerations for anyone taking it, especially in emergency situations.

Disordered eating encompasses a range of unhealthy eating habits, such as skipping meals, obsessing over “clean” foods, following restrictive diets, overeating, and feeling anxious about eating in social situations. These behaviors can often progress into more serious eating disorders. In fact, studies show that 18.75% of female college students are at risk for developing an eating disorder, with many engaging in behaviors like binge eating or self-induced vomiting. A staggering 91% of college women have dieted at some point to control their weight.