Kicking an addiction—whether it’s nicotine or alcohol—is no small feat. You need the right treatment to stack the odds in your favor. Two of the most powerful medications in this fight? Naltrexone and Varenicline Tartrate.
Both have helped thousands reclaim their lives, but the big question remains: Which one is right for you?
This guide breaks it all down. We’ll tackle the key differences, side effects, costs, and everything else you need to make the right choice.
The Basics: What Are Naltrexone and Varenicline Tartrate?
Naltrexone: The Craving Blocker
Naltrexone is a heavy hitter when it comes to managing alcohol and opioid dependence. It blocks opioid receptors in the brain and cuts off the euphoric effects of these substances and reducing cravings. It comes in two forms:
- Pill (daily use)
- Vivitrol (monthly injection)
If you’re looking for an anti-alcohol medicine, this might be the treatment that you need.
…nine studies were located that investigated the effect of naltrexone on drinking behaviour in a comorbid schizophrenia and AUD population. The most favourable evidence for naltrexone’s efficacy was in the reduction of heavy drinking days, followed by maintenance of abstinence and reduction in the number of drinking days. Further evidence suggests that naltrexone may be effective in reduction of drinks per week and the number of drinks per drinking day (Naltrexone efficacy in treating alcohol-use disorder in individuals with comorbid psychosis: a systematic review – PMC).
Varenicline Tartrate: The Smoking Stopper
Known by the brand name Varnisam, Varenicline Tartrate is designed specifically to help smokers quit. It works by binding to nicotine receptors, which makes cigarettes less satisfying while also reducing cravings. That means:
- Smoking becomes less enjoyable
- You feel fewer urges to light up
For those looking to break free from nicotine, Varenicline Tartrate is one of the most effective smoking cessation treatments out there.
Varenicline tartrate plus Quitline-counselling was found to be an effective opportunistic treatment when initiated for inpatient smokers who had been admitted with tobacco-related disease (Two-year efficacy of varenicline tartrate and counselling for inpatient smoking cessation (STOP study): A randomized controlled clinical trial – PubMed).
Which One Should You Choose?
It all comes down to what you’re trying to quit. Here’s a quick breakdown:
1. Are You Struggling With Alcohol or Opioids?
Go with Naltrexone. This medication directly targets cravings and pleasure responses tied to alcohol and opioids, making it easier to stay sober.
2. Is Nicotine Your Enemy?
Varenicline Tartrate is your best bet. It was built for smokers and helps rewire your brain’s response to nicotine.
3. What’s Your Treatment Style?
Want to stay actively involved with a daily pill? Both options work. Prefer a once-a-month injection? Vivitrol (Naltrexone) has you covered.
Side Effects: What to Expect
Naltrexone
| Common | Nausea, headaches, fatigue |
| Occasional | Anxiety, insomnia |
| Important | If you’re currently using opioids, taking Naltrexone can trigger withdrawal. A liver function test is usually required before starting treatment. |
Of 865 patients enrolled, 570 received naltrexone and 295 were in a reference group. The most common new-onset adverse clinical events in the naltrexone group were nausea (9.8%) and headache (6.6%). Naltrexone was discontinued in 15.0% of patients because of adverse events, most frequently nausea. The results of liver function tests in the naltrexone group were similar to those in the reference group. No death occurred during the study (The safety profile of naltrexone in the treatment of alcoholism. Results from a multicenter usage study. The Naltrexone Usage Study Group – PubMed).
Varenicline Tartrate
| Common | Nausea, vivid dreams |
| Occasional | Mood swings, increased anxiety |
| Important | If you have a history of mental health issues, talk to your doctor first. A small percentage of users experience worsened anxiety or depression. |
The findings from our study substantiate the results of meta-analyses and previous small observational studies that show that varenicline is not likely to increase the risk of self-harm or depression or any of a wide range of cardiovascular outcomes. Although this study could not rule out adverse reactions that do not get recorded in general practice records, the findings have clear implications for the safety warnings for varenicline and for clinical practice. They suggest an opportunity for physicians to prescribe varenicline more broadly, even for patients with comorbidities, thereby helping more smokers to quit successfully than do at present (Cardiovascular and neuropsychiatric risks of varenicline: a retrospective cohort study – PMC).
Cost & Accessibility: Which One Hits Your Wallet Harder?
| Naltrexone | Varenicline Tartrate |
|---|---|
| The pill form is generally affordable. Vivitrol injection can be expensive without insurance, so check your coverage or look into assistance programs. |
Typically covered by insurance, but some plans limit coverage. Generic versions (when available) significantly reduce costs. |
FAQs: Quick Answers to Top Questions
Can Naltrexone and Varenicline Tartrate be taken together?
Not usually. They target different types of addiction, and combining them isn’t common practice.
How long do I need to take these medications?
- Naltrexone: Typically several months to a year.
- Varenicline Tartrate: Usually 12 weeks, with an option to extend.
Do these medications work alone, or should I add therapy?
They work best with support. Whether it’s therapy, a support group, or coaching, combining medication with behavioral strategies can increase your success rate.
Are there non-prescription alternatives?
For nicotine addiction, yes. Patches, gum, lozenges are available OTC. But for alcohol or opioid dependence, there’s no over-the-counter equivalent for Naltrexone.
What If I Relapse?
Relapse isn’t failure. Talk to your doctor about adjusting your treatment plan.
The Final Takeaway: Choosing Your Path to Freedom
Both Naltrexone and Varenicline Tartrate have changed lives. The most important thing is to pick the one that fits your battle.
- Fighting alcohol or opioids? Go for Naltrexone
- Trying to quit smoking? Varenicline Tartrate is the choice
- Want a one-time monthly dose? Take Naltrexone
- Prefer daily control over treatment? Either one works
No matter your choice, the fact that you’re here, exploring your options, means you’re already on the right path. Recovery isn’t easy—but with the right strategy, it’s absolutely possible.
Where to buy Naltrexone and Varenicline
Here are the most reliable and trusted sites where you can purchase Naltrexone and Varenicline (Varnisam):