Things We Do for No Reason™: Avoiding naltrexone for alcohol use disorder in liver disease.

Abstract

Hospitalizations related to alcohol use disorder (AUD) are common. Yet, few patients receive pharmacotherapy consistent with guideline recommendations. Previous concerns over the potential hepatotoxicity of naltrexone have been disproven and recent studies have shown its safety and efficacy in patients with cirrhosis. Naltrexone is an effective therapy to reduce heavy alcohol consumption, however, lack of knowledge among prescribers inhibits greater uptake. Hospitalization is an opportune time for change-naltrexone can promote the reduction or cessation of unhealthy alcohol consumption, as well as subsequent readmissions or progression of alcohol-related liver disease. Hospitalists should stop avoiding naltrexone in the treatment of AUD.