The treatment combines two medications: naltrexone, commonly used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence, and bupropion, an antidepressant. These medications have not been FDA-approved to treat methamphetamine use disorder, but a recent New England Journal of Medicine (Jan 2021) study, and other medical literature, supports their use for this purpose.

The combination of naltrexone and bupropion is strictly for isolated methamphetamine use disorder. If you are using meth and opioids together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan for you that may include buprenorphine (Suboxone). We have successfully treated many patients using multiple substances and can help you too.

Naltrexone-bupropion is not approved for use in people under the age 18. Younger adolescents in need of treatment should be referrred to a clinician or program specializing in adolescent addiction.

Studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of naltrexone and bupropion combination in older adults. However, elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine and are more likely to have age-related kidney problems. This may require extra caution and an adjustment in dosing for patients receiving this medicine.

Unfortunately, naltrexone-bupropion is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may harm the fetus.