Researchers have found that genetics may play a role in why Naltrexone, a medication used to reduce cravings in people trying to quit drinking, works for some and not for others. In fact, a new study has found that Naltrexone may actually increase craving for those with a certain genetic make-up.

John McGeary, research psychologist at the Providence VA Medical Center, found that carriers of a certain gene have an unexpected response to naltrexone, a greater urge to drink. In a news release, Under Certain Genetic Circumstances, Naltrexone May Increase the Urge to Drink, McGeary said, "These findings challenge the notion that naltrexone works by reducing craving and suggest that there may be another mechanism of action for naltrexone. Furthermore, we may have identified a genetic variation that predicts response to naltrexone."

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