Medicine & USMLE

Naltrexone

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Neuro Drugs
  1. Anticholinergic Syndrome
  2. Cholinergic Crisis
  3. Benztropine / Trihexyphenidyl
  4. Pyridostigmine, Neostigmine, Edrophonium
  5. Donepezil
  6. Memantine
  7. Scopolamine
  8. Levodopa, Carbidopa
  9. Selegiline / Rasagiline
  10. Entacapone / Tolcapone
  11. Propofol
  12. Halothane / Flurane
  13. Opioids
  14. Succinylcholine
  15. Lidocaine
  16. Ergotamine
  17. Triptans
  18. Pregabalin
  19. Gabapentin
  20. Ramelteon

Summary

Naltrexone is a medication given to help treat opioid and alcohol dependence. Since it works slowly and has long-lasting effects, it cannot be used to treat acute intoxication. Instead, it is better used to help patients slowly recover from opioid and alcohol addiction.

Key Points

  • Naltrexone (Vivitrol, ReVia)
    • Mechanism
      • Binds to the mu receptors, thus preventing narcotics from binding to the receptor site
      • Mechanism is similar to naloxone, but effects are longer-lasting and it works slowly
      • Administered orally
    • Clinical use
      • Opioid and alcohol dependence
        • To help recover from opioid or alcohol addiction
        • By blocking the opioid receptors, naltrexone has been shown to reduce craving, aiding in the ability to quit
    • Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
      • Dizziness
      • Headaches
      • Insomnia
      • Anxiety
      • Anorexia