Naltrexone has recently gotten the reputation as a kind of "cure" for alcoholism. It is a drug that is usually taken daily in tablet form and leads to reduced cravings for alcohol. Naltrexone is also prescribed to some people to be used while they are still drinking with the intention that it will block the pleasure of drinking and gradually reduce cravings until the person finally quits completely. Naltrexone is also used in the treatment of opioid addiction as it blocks the receptors affected by opiate-based drugs.

Users usually report that they are largely unaware of being on Naltrexone. Naltrexone is not addicting, either emotionally or physically, and can be interrupted without adverse effects. While it does reduce alcohol craving, it does not interfere with the experience of other types of pleasure.

While effective, it must be remembered that Naltrexone is a tool to assist an individual in the process of recovery, and is not a cure in itself. Numerous studies conclude that Naltrexone, in combination with recovery program support, significantly enhances the ability to achieve positive recovery results.

Naltrexone does not "cure" addiction, but it has helped many who suffer from alcohol or drug addiction to maintain abstinence by reducing their craving for alcohol or drugs.