Abstract
What is known and objective
Individuals with medication adherence challenges or a preference for long‐acting medications may benefit from extended‐release naltrexone (XR‐NTX) for treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Individuals on therapeutic anticoagulation were excluded from XR‐NTX studies and its safety in this population has not been reported.
Case summary
We conducted structured retrospective chart review of six individuals who received XR‐NTX for AUD while on therapeutic anticoagulation between November 2019 and Deccember 2020. We found no documented complications among six individuals who received up to 11 doses of XR‐NTX while on therapeutic anticoagulation.
What is new and conclusion
XR‐NTX may be safely tolerated by patients on therapeutic anticoagulation. We need larger studies evaluating XR‐NTX administration in patients on therapeutic anticoagulation and those with coagulopathies, including individuals with alcohol‐related liver disease, to better quantify risks and benefits for shared decision‐making.
Guide to XR‐NTX Discussion for Patients on Therapeutic Anticoagulation.