Nalmefene
Nalmefene is an opioid antagonist medication primarily used to reduce alcohol consumption in adults with alcohol dependence. It works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain, which helps decrease the urge to drink. This medication is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes counseling and support.
Nalmefene is an opioid antagonist used to help reduce alcohol consumption in people with alcohol dependence.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N07BB05
- RxNorm
- 31479
- Generic
- Nalmefene
- Class
- atc-n07
- Brands
- Opvee, Zurnai
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- nasal
- Forms
- injection, spray, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 1 spray (0.25mg) into one nostril
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- may repeat once after 2-3 minutes if inadequate response
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1 spray (0.25mg) into one nostril
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- may repeat once after 2-3 minutes if inadequate response
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1 spray (0.25mg) into one nostril
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- may repeat once after 2-3 minutes if inadequate response
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
7 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh risks to fetus
regular fetal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if clearly needed monitor fetal well-being
fetal heart rate monitoring and ultrasound
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingdiscontinue or pump and discard
avoid nalmefene while breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary
monitor infant for adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlystart with lower dose
use with caution due to increased sensitivity monitor renal and hepatic function
regular monitoring of renal and hepatic function vital signs
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children adolescentsnot established
safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients use only in emergency situations
close monitoring for adverse effects
renal_impairment
moderate to severedose reduction may be required
use with caution in renal impairment monitor renal function closely
monitor renal function tests creatinine clearance
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderate to severedose reduction may be required
use with caution in hepatic impairment monitor liver function tests
monitor hepatic function tests and clinical status
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approved
FDA approval for opioid overdose reversal
Drug class
ATC classification as opioid antagonist
Common uses
Therapeutic indications
Brand names
Commercial brand names
Nalmefene is indicated for the reduction of alcohol consumption in adults with alcohol dependence who have a high drinking risk level, without physical withdrawal symptoms and as part of a broader psychosocial treatment program.
Nalmefene is an opioid antagonist that works by selectively binding to and blocking opioid receptors (particularly mu-opioid receptors) in the brain. This blocking action reduces the rewarding and reinforcing effects of alcohol, thereby decreasing the patient's urge to drink.
Nalmefene should not be used in patients dependent on opioids, as it may precipitate acute withdrawal symptoms. Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and headache. It is contraindicated in patients taking opioid analgesics or those with acute opioid withdrawal. Treatment should be initiated only after assessment by a physician and should include regular monitoring. Liver function tests should be performed before and during treatment as needed.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy