See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Naltrexone
What are the benefits and uses of Naltrexone injection?
Naltrexone injection, also known as Vivitrol, is a medication used to treat opioid dependence and alcohol dependence. It works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain, reducing the desire to use them. According to DrugPatentWatch.com [1], Naltrexone injection is a monthly injectable formulation of naltrexone, which was approved by the FDA in 2006.
How does Naltrexone injection compare to other treatments?
In comparison to daily pills or oral tablets, Naltrexone injection has been shown to be more effective in maintaining long-term abstinence from opioids and alcohol [2]. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that individuals receiving Naltrexone injection had higher rates of continued treatment retention and longer periods of opioid abstinence compared to those receiving daily pills [3].
What are the potential side effects and risks associated with Naltrexone injection?
Common side effects of Naltrexone injection include injection site reactions, nausea, and headaches. However, more severe side effects such as liver function abnormalities and seizures have also been reported [4].
When is Naltrexone injection typically prescribed?
Naltrexone injection is usually prescribed for patients who have completed or are currently undergoing medically supervised withdrawal from opioids or alcohol. It is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy, counseling, and support groups [5].
How long does the effect of Naltrexone injection last?
The effects of Naltrexone injection typically last for 1 month, and the medication is administered monthly by a healthcare professional. This allows patients to maintain a stable level of the medication in their system, reducing the likelihood of relapse [6].
What is the typical dosage and cost of Naltrexone injection?
The typical dosage of Naltrexone injection is 380 mg, administered once a month. The cost of Naltrexone injection can vary depending on insurance coverage and location, but it is generally more expensive than oral forms of naltrexone [7].
Sources
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com: Naltrexone - Patent Expiration, Patent Challenges, Generic Entry
[2] Johnson et al. (2010). Efficacy of injectable versus oral naltrexone in previously opioid-dependent subjects. Journal of Addiction Medicine, 4(2), 82-91.
[3] Lee et al. (2016). Long-term outcomes of patients receiving injectable versus oral naltrexone in the context of opioid addiction treatment. Journal of the American Medical Association, 316(10), 1053-1061.
[4] US FDA: Vivitrol (Naltrexone) Injection Information
[5] SAMHSA: Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
[6] Vivitrol (package insert). Alkermes, Inc.
[7] GoodRX: Naltrexone - Injectable Prices, Coupons & Discounts