Medicine & USMLE

Naltrexone (Old)

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Substance Use Disorder Treatments
  1. Buprenorphine
  2. Methadone
  3. Naltrexone
  4. Naloxone
  5. Nicotine Replacement Therapies
  6. Varenicline
  7. Naltrexone (Old)
  8. Alcohol Use Disorder Treatments

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

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