Naltrexone Treatment in Atlanta
Naltrexone + Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
For people living with alcohol or opioid use disorder, recovery is not about “trying harder.” It’s about having the right tools, support, and medical guidance to help the brain heal and make everyday life more manageable. Naltrexone is one of those tools. As part of a comprehensive treatment plan, it can reduce cravings, support long-term sobriety, and give individuals the stability they need to rebuild their lives.
Contact us today to begin therapy and find your path to recovery.
At Valor Behavioral Health, we offer naltrexone treatment in Atlanta within a compassionate, structured environment where each person is treated thoroughly and individually. Our medical team takes the time to understand your history, your goals, and your concerns so you can move forward with confidence during medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
If you or a loved one need addiction treatment, visit our admissions page or text us at 678-679-4077 today.
What is Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication used to treat both opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. It is not an opioid, it is not addictive, and it does not cause withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Instead, naltrexone works by blocking certain receptors in the brain that play a major role in reinforcing substance use. When cravings decrease and the “reward” cycle is disrupted, people have a greater ability to participate fully in therapy, build coping skills, and stabilize their lives.
Naltrexone is available in two forms: a daily oral tablet and a long-acting injectable medication given once a month. The injectable version, called Vivitrol, is often recommended for individuals who want consistent coverage without worrying about missed doses.
How Does Naltrexone Work?
Naltrexone binds to the brain’s opioid receptors, the same receptors activated by alcohol and opioids. By occupying these receptors, it prevents substances from creating pleasurable effects. When the brain no longer experiences the same reinforcement, cravings tend to decrease, and the urge to use fades over time.
People often describe a sense of freedom they haven’t felt in years. Without the constant pull of cravings, they can focus fully on recovery, rebuild relationships, and discover healthier ways to navigate stress.
Naltrexone works best when combined with:
- Therapy and counseling
- Support groups
- Lifestyle changes
- Treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders
At Valor Behavioral Health, naltrexone is one component of a holistic, personalized treatment plan designed to support long-term recovery.
Naltrexone for Opioids
For individuals recovering from opioid use disorder, naltrexone helps prevent relapse by blocking the euphoric effects of opioids. If a person attempts to use while on naltrexone, they will not experience the high they once did. This can be a powerful deterrent during early recovery, especially for people who are rebuilding structure, coping skills, and stability following detox.
Because naltrexone requires a person to be fully detoxed from opioids before beginning treatment, our medical team helps determine the best timeframe to start. We coordinate care, monitor symptoms, and ensure the transition into medication-assisted treatment is safe and well-supported. For many, naltrexone provides space for healing, clarity, and re-engagement in daily life.
Naltrexone for Alcohol
Naltrexone is also a highly effective medication for alcohol use disorder. By blocking the endorphin release associated with drinking, it reduces the rewarding effects people often feel when they consume alcohol. Over time, this helps decrease cravings, cut down on drinking behavior, and support full abstinence.
Many individuals report that alcohol simply feels “less appealing” while on naltrexone. This shift allows them to break long-standing habits and engage more deeply in therapy. When combined with counseling and a structured treatment plan, naltrexone can significantly improve long-term recovery outcomes.
Atlanta, Georgia Treatment Programs That Offer Naltrexone
Valor Behavioral Health offers naltrexone treatment in Atlanta within several levels of care, allowing clients to receive support tailored to their needs. Medication is only one part of treatment—we pair it with therapy, education, and compassionate clinical guidance.
Programs that may include naltrexone:
- Partial Hospitalization Programming (PHP)
- Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP)
- Outpatient services
- Dual-diagnosis treatment for individuals with co-occurring mental health needs
Our team provides ongoing monitoring, dose adjustments when needed, and consistent emotional and clinical support. We work closely with each client to ensure naltrexone is safe, effective, and integrated into a treatment plan that makes sense for their lifestyle.
Potential Side Effects of Naltrexone
Like any medication, naltrexone may cause side effects for some individuals. While most are mild and often improve over time, our medical team monitors each client closely to ensure treatment is safe and comfortable.
Possible side effects include:
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Sleep changes
- Muscle or joint pain
- Injection-site irritation (for extended-release injectable naltrexone)
Most people tolerate the medication well, and our clinicians are always available to discuss concerns or make adjustments. Your comfort and safety remain our top priority.
How Long Does Naltrexone Last?
The duration of naltrexone’s effects depends on the form used. Oral naltrexone lasts about 24 hours, while the extended-release injectable version offers continuous coverage for approximately 30 days. The injectable form is especially helpful for individuals who prefer not to take daily medication or who want consistent support without disruption.
Many clients continue naltrexone for several months to a year, depending on their recovery plan. Our clinicians provide ongoing guidance so you can make informed decisions about your treatment timeline.
Why Valor Behavioral Health?
At Valor Behavioral Health, we believe recovery should never feel cold or clinical. Our mission is to create a safe, supportive environment where people can heal emotionally, physically, and mentally. We provide naltrexone treatment in Atlanta with the compassion, expertise, and personalized care each individual deserves.
What makes Valor different?
- A warm and welcoming environment
- Comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each client
- Evidence-based therapies alongside medical support
- A team that genuinely cares about long-term recovery
- A commitment to dignity, respect, and person-centered treatment
Addiction Treatment
Get Help Now
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues or dual diagnosis disorders and seeking a balanced approach to recovery, our drug rehab in Atlanta may be the right choice.
Our Medical Team
Our medical team is made up of skilled and experienced clinicians who dedicate their careers to treating substance use disorders. We provide a judgment-free environment that enables people to gain control of their physical and mental health again and live their best lives.
Medication-Assisted Treatment in Georgia
If you or your loved one is considering naltrexone as part of recovery from opioid or alcohol use disorder, our team is here to help. Contact Valor Behavioral Health today to learn more about your treatment options, verify insurance, or schedule an assessment. Healing begins with one step, and we’re ready to take it with you.
FAQ About Naltrexone
Costs vary depending on insurance coverage, medication form, and treatment plan. Many insurance providers help cover naltrexone and related services. Visit our insurance information pages to learn more about coverage and verification.
Weight changes are not common with naltrexone, but some individuals may notice shifts in appetite or metabolism. Most weight-related changes are mild, temporary, and vary from person to person.
Individuals using low-dose naltrexone should avoid:
- Opioid medications
- Alcohol
- Certain sedatives or pain medications
- Starting new prescriptions without consulting a provider
Our team will review all medications and supplements to ensure safety.
Although the names sound similar, naloxone and naltrexone serve very different purposes:
- Naloxone (Narcan) is an emergency medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.
- Naltrexone is a long-term medication used to prevent relapse in individuals recovering from opioid or alcohol use disorder.
Treatment Philosophy
Meet Our Team
