Naltrexone Is Superior to Placebo for Abstinence and Craving Reduction in Alcohol-Associated Cirrhosis: NAL-CI Trial.
Liver IntSep 1, 2026
Manasa Alla, Mohit Varshney, Ankit Bhardwaj et al.
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In 30 seconds
The NAL-CI trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of naltrexone in 100 patients with compensated alcohol-associated cirrhosis and alcohol use disorder. This randomized controlled trial found that naltrexone significantly increased abstinence rates at 12 weeks, achieving 64% compared to 22% for placebo (p < 0.001).
Key findings
- Abstinence at 12 weeks was 64% with naltrexone versus 22% with placebo (p < 0.001).
- Naltrexone reduced lapses at 3 months to 28% compared to 54% for placebo (p = 0.008).
- Mean craving scores were significantly lower with naltrexone at week 12.
Why it matters
This study highlights a potential pharmacological treatment for patients with alcohol use disorder and compensated cirrhosis, a population with limited therapeutic options. Effective management of alcohol dependence can improve patient outcomes and reduce morbidity.