Naltrexone and Self-mutilation (No-BPD)

Written by Dr. Leland Heller

QUESTION:

I'm looking for information on the use of Naltrexone as an adjunct treatment for clients who cut. I'd appreciate any direction.

DR. HELLER'S ANSWER:

I've not encountered any information on this, but on initial thought I would fear it because Naltrexone is used to block morrphine. Since cutters cut to make the pain go away, they are likely creating their own morphine - endorphins - but cutting. Without studies or direct personal experience it's impossible to predict what could happen. While it's possible cutting would stop because it didn't make the pain go away, it could also result in a greater self-destructiveness and suicide because they can't make the pain stop. The goal is to make the pain stop by means other than cutting and other forms of self-destruction.

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