Revia overview
Revia is a brand name for naltrexone, a medicine that acts on opioid receptors. It is used as part of a broader medical and psychosocial treatment plan, rather than as a standalone cure. Suitability depends on the condition being treated, medical history, and current medicines.
Naltrexone is not an opioid and does not create an opioid-like effect. Instead, it blocks or reduces the effects of opioid medicines and may reduce the rewarding effects associated with alcohol use. A clinician should determine whether Revia is appropriate for an individual patient.
People searching to buy Revia online in Denmark should use a pharmacy service that provides clear medicine information, secure handling of personal data, and appropriate regulatory checks. Revia should be supplied only when its use is medically suitable. Product packaging and available strengths can vary between authorised suppliers.
What Revia is used for
Revia may be prescribed to support relapse prevention after opioid dependence, once a person has completed opioid withdrawal. It can also be used in alcohol dependence treatment to help reduce the urge to drink or the reinforcing effects of alcohol. It does not relieve acute opioid withdrawal symptoms.
For opioid dependence, naltrexone must not be started while opioids are still active in the body. Taking it too soon can trigger sudden, severe withdrawal symptoms. The required opioid-free interval depends on the opioid involved and must be assessed by a healthcare professional.
For alcohol-related treatment, Revia is usually combined with counselling, behavioural support, or a structured recovery programme. It is not intended to make alcohol consumption safe. Ongoing review helps assess benefit, tolerability, and adherence.
Active ingredient and origin
The active ingredient in Revia is naltrexone hydrochloride. Naltrexone belongs to a group of medicines called opioid antagonists. These medicines bind to opioid receptors without activating them in the same way as opioid drugs.
Naltrexone was developed from earlier research into compounds capable of blocking opioid receptor activity. Its creation followed advances in understanding how opioid receptors influence pain, reward, and dependence. Oral naltrexone later became an established option in addiction medicine under clinical supervision.
Scientific understanding of alcohol-use disorder and opioid-use disorder has continued to develop since naltrexone was introduced. Modern treatment commonly combines medication with psychological and social support. Revia should therefore be considered one element of an individual care plan.
How naltrexone works
Naltrexone competitively blocks mu-opioid receptors, which are involved in the effects of opioid medicines and illicit opioids. If an opioid is taken while naltrexone is active, its usual effects may be reduced or prevented. This blockade can also make opioid pain treatment more complicated in an emergency.
In alcohol dependence, the exact clinical benefit involves several biological pathways. Blocking opioid receptor signalling may reduce some of the reward response linked with drinking. Response varies, and some people may experience greater benefit than others.
Revia does not remove the underlying causes of dependence. It also does not prevent intoxication or medical harm from alcohol. Psychological care, relapse-prevention planning, and support from qualified services remain important.
Forms and usual dosage considerations
Revia has commonly been supplied as oral tablets containing naltrexone hydrochloride. A frequently used adult maintenance regimen is 50 mg once daily, but individual directions can differ. Follow the strength and schedule written on the dispensing label.
Some treatment plans may use supervised or adjusted schedules when daily dosing is not suitable. Such arrangements should be set by the prescriber, not changed independently. Missing doses, restarting treatment, or stopping after opioid exposure requires professional guidance.
| Form | Typical role | Important consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Oral naltrexone tablet | Regular maintenance treatment | Take exactly as directed and maintain clinical follow-up |
| Other naltrexone formulations | May be available in some healthcare settings | Availability and approval differ by country and provider |
Do not crush, split, or alter a tablet unless the product information or pharmacist confirms that this is appropriate. Taking more than prescribed does not improve treatment results. Discuss practical issues such as swallowing difficulty or a disrupted routine with a pharmacist or prescriber.
How to take Revia safely
Revia is generally taken by mouth with water, with or without food unless a clinician gives different instructions. Taking it at a consistent time may help with adherence. If nausea occurs, a clinician or pharmacist can advise on suitable ways to manage it.
Before starting, the prescriber needs to know about all opioid-containing medicines, including some cough products, pain medicines, and treatments for diarrhoea. Patients should also disclose use of illicit opioids or opioid substitution treatment. A medical assessment may include consideration of liver function and opioid-free status.
Do not attempt to overcome naltrexone’s opioid blockade by taking larger amounts of opioids. This can cause life-threatening overdose, particularly when the medicine is missed or stopped and opioid tolerance has fallen. Carrying medical information about naltrexone treatment can be useful in urgent-care situations.
How long Revia lasts in the body
After an oral dose, naltrexone is absorbed and metabolised into active substances, including 6-beta-naltrexol. The parent medicine has a relatively short blood half-life, while its metabolite remains longer. Elimination can be affected by liver function, kidney function, dose, and individual metabolism.
The receptor-blocking effect of a standard oral dose may last approximately a day, although this is not identical to the time required for every trace to leave the body. Clinicians consider both the dose history and the type of opioid involved when planning treatment changes. It is unsafe to estimate personal clearance timing without medical advice.
After stopping Revia, opioid sensitivity may increase because opioid tolerance can be reduced. This raises overdose risk if opioids are resumed at an amount previously tolerated. Patients should discuss emergency pain management and any plan to discontinue treatment with their healthcare team.
Research and expected benefits
Clinical research supports naltrexone as an option for selected adults with alcohol dependence and for relapse prevention after opioid detoxification. Its benefit is best understood in the context of continued treatment engagement. It may help some patients reduce heavy drinking or remain free from opioid use.
Research findings do not mean that every person will respond in the same way. Adherence, coexisting mental-health conditions, social circumstances, and access to support can influence outcomes. Regular review allows the treatment plan to be adjusted when needed.
Revia is not considered a sedative, stimulant, or replacement opioid. It does not produce the euphoria associated with opioid agonists. Its therapeutic value comes from receptor blockade and its place within comprehensive dependence care.
Dependence and addiction potential
Naltrexone is not generally considered to cause physical dependence or addiction. Stopping it does not usually produce a naltrexone withdrawal syndrome. However, stopping treatment may remove opioid blockade and change a person’s risk profile.
Revia should not be confused with opioid substitution medicines that activate opioid receptors. It blocks opioid effects rather than replacing them. This difference is important when discussing treatment expectations and pain management.
People with a history of substance dependence may require continuing support even when medication is helpful. A medication cannot replace safety planning, counselling, and follow-up. Contact a healthcare professional promptly if cravings, relapse concerns, or distress become difficult to manage.
Side effects and allergic reactions
Possible side effects of Revia include nausea, abdominal discomfort, headache, dizziness, tiredness, sleep disturbance, anxiety, or joint and muscle pain. Many effects are mild or temporary, but all new or troublesome symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Liver-related symptoms require particular attention.
Seek urgent medical help for signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread hives, or collapse. Stop taking the medicine and obtain urgent advice if these symptoms occur. Severe rash or blistering also needs prompt assessment.
Symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent upper abdominal pain, marked fatigue, or unexplained bruising may indicate liver problems. These are not symptoms to self-manage. Contact a doctor urgently if they develop.
Who should not take Revia
Revia should not be used by people currently dependent on opioids, those experiencing opioid withdrawal, or those with a positive opioid test when treatment has not been medically cleared. It may precipitate severe withdrawal if opioids are present. This includes prescribed and non-prescribed opioid exposure.
People with acute hepatitis or liver failure may not be suitable for naltrexone treatment. Previous hypersensitivity to naltrexone or any tablet ingredient is also a reason to avoid it. A clinician should evaluate liver disease, kidney impairment, and other significant health conditions.
Use in pregnancy or breastfeeding requires an individual medical assessment because the balance of benefits and risks differs by person. Revia is not routinely a self-selected treatment for children. Age eligibility, formulation approvals, and specialist involvement should be confirmed in Denmark.
Alcohol, medicines, and other interactions
Revia is used in alcohol-dependence treatment, but it does not protect against alcohol poisoning, impaired judgement, or alcohol-related injury. Drinking alcohol while taking it may still be harmful. Anyone with liver disease or ongoing heavy alcohol use needs careful medical review.
The most important interaction concern is with opioid-containing medicines. Naltrexone can block opioid analgesics and may complicate treatment after surgery, injury, or dental procedures. Tell every doctor, dentist, pharmacist, and emergency clinician that you take or recently took Revia.
Other medicines can also matter, especially those that affect the liver or cause overlapping side effects. Provide a complete list of prescriptions, non-prescription products, supplements, and recreational substances during assessment. Do not start opioid-containing cold remedies or pain medicines without checking first.
Overdose and urgent situations
Taking more Revia than prescribed may increase the likelihood or severity of adverse effects. There is no appropriate home remedy for a suspected overdose. Contact emergency services, a poison information service, or urgent medical care immediately for advice.
A greater danger may arise when someone attempts to override opioid blockade with large opioid doses. Respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, and death can occur. The risk can remain high after Revia is discontinued because previous opioid tolerance may no longer be present.
In an emergency, give clinicians the medicine name, strength, timing of the last dose, and information about any opioid exposure. Do not delay medical care while waiting for symptoms to worsen. Keep the medicine package available if possible.
Alternatives to Revia
Alternatives depend on the reason naltrexone is being considered. For alcohol dependence, clinicians may discuss medicines such as acamprosate or disulfiram where appropriate, alongside non-medication support. Each option has different contraindications, monitoring needs, and expected effects.
For opioid-use disorder, evidence-based approaches may include opioid agonist treatments such as buprenorphine or methadone, as well as naltrexone after detoxification. These are not interchangeable medicines. The appropriate approach depends on opioid use, treatment goals, health status, and service availability.
Psychological therapies, peer support, housing support, and treatment for anxiety or depression may also be essential components of care. A professional assessment can help compare options without oversimplifying a complex decision. Never switch from opioids or another dependence treatment to Revia without medical supervision.
Storage and safe handling
Store Revia in its original packaging at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Follow the storage instructions printed on the carton and patient leaflet if they differ. Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Do not use tablets after the expiry date or if packaging appears damaged or tampered with. Avoid storing medicines in bathrooms, cars, or other locations subject to heat and humidity. A pharmacist can advise on safe disposal of unused tablets.
Because naltrexone affects opioid treatment, it should never be shared with another person. Keep an up-to-date list of medicines for healthcare visits. This is especially important if emergency care becomes necessary.
Revia access, price, and delivery in Denmark
In Denmark, naltrexone products are generally subject to prescription and pharmacy regulations. Claims that Revia is available without prescription should be treated cautiously and checked against current Danish rules. A legitimate pharmacy should require the documentation and clinical review required by law.
The price of naltrexone can vary between other pharmacies according to brand availability, pack size, dispensing fees, reimbursement status, and delivery arrangements. Any quoted amount should be regarded as indicative until confirmed at checkout. Avoid suppliers that conceal total costs or do not identify the dispensing pharmacy.
Ordering through our pharmacy involves selecting the requested product, completing required verification steps, and reviewing delivery details before payment. After dispatch, package tracking information is normally provided through the chosen delivery method. Secure ordering, discreet packaging, and access to pharmacist support can make pharmacy delivery more convenient while preserving appropriate safeguards.
Frequently Asked Questions About Revia
Do I need to be opioid-free before starting Revia?
Yes. Revia contains naltrexone, which can trigger sudden, severe withdrawal if opioids are still in the body. A clinician will usually confirm an adequate opioid-free interval and may use history, testing, or a supervised assessment before treatment begins.
What should I do if I miss a Revia dose?
Do not take an extra tablet to make up for a missed dose. Follow the instructions supplied with your prescription or ask a pharmacist or prescriber for advice, particularly if you have missed several doses.
Can Revia be started while someone is still drinking alcohol?
For alcohol-use treatment, naltrexone may sometimes be initiated when a person is still drinking, but this should be decided with a clinician. It is not a treatment for alcohol withdrawal, which can require urgent medical assessment and separate care.
Does Revia stop alcohol cravings immediately?
Revia may reduce the rewarding effects of alcohol and help some people manage cravings, but the response and timing vary. It works best as one part of an individual treatment plan that may also include counselling, practical support, and follow-up.
Will Revia block opioid pain medicines during surgery or dental treatment?
Revia can block or reduce the effect of opioid-containing pain relief. Tell the surgeon, dentist, anaesthetist, and pharmacist that you take naltrexone well before a planned procedure so they can arrange an appropriate pain-management plan.
What should I do if I need emergency pain relief while taking Revia?
Seek urgent medical help and clearly state that you are taking Revia or naltrexone. Do not attempt to overcome opioid blockade by taking larger opioid doses; this can cause life-threatening poisoning, especially as the blocking effect wears off.
Are liver checks needed with Revia?
Naltrexone is processed by the liver, so a prescriber may review liver history and arrange blood tests before or during treatment when clinically appropriate. Promptly seek medical advice for symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent abdominal pain, or unusual fatigue.
Can Revia be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
The potential benefits and risks need individual assessment during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Do not start, stop, or continue Revia without discussing alcohol or opioid-use treatment options with the clinician overseeing your care.
Can I drive after taking Revia?
Some people experience dizziness, tiredness, or reduced concentration, particularly when starting treatment. Avoid driving, cycling in traffic, or operating machinery until you know how Revia affects you.
Does Revia cause weight loss?
Revia is not generally prescribed as a stand-alone weight-loss medicine. Changes in appetite or weight can have many causes, so discuss any significant or unwanted change with a healthcare professional rather than changing the dose yourself.
Can I stop Revia suddenly?
Revia does not usually cause a withdrawal syndrome when stopped, but stopping can remove its protective effect against alcohol or opioid relapse. Speak with the prescriber first so that ongoing support, relapse prevention, and any future pain-care needs can be planned.
What information should I keep with me while taking Revia?
Consider carrying a medication card or keeping Revia listed in your phone’s medical information, because emergency clinicians need to know that naltrexone may block opioids. In Denmark, ensure your regular pharmacy and healthcare providers have an up-to-date medicines list.
Pharmacist Review
The current Revia product-page content has been professionally reviewed for clarity, responsible medicine information, and relevance for customers in Denmark.
| Reviewed by | Mette Kjærgaard, Cand.pharm., Authorised Pharmacist |
|---|---|
| Professional identifier | Authorisation ID: 78452136 |
| Professional authority | Danish Patient Safety Authority |
| Review date | 26 August 2025 |
This review considers information on Revia, including its active ingredient naltrexone, intended use, important precautions, adverse effects, and interaction considerations. Treatment decisions should be based on an individual clinical assessment and the approved product information.
Medical disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a doctor.
Pharmacy Location and Opening Hours
For Revia, visit our pharmacy at Vesterbrogade 6, 1620 København V, Hovedstaden, Denmark.
| Days | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Monday–Sunday | 06:00–00:00 |