Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026

A Method for Evaluating the Reinforcing Properties of Ethanol in Rats without Water Deprivation, Saccharin Fading or Extended Access Training
Published on: January 29, 2017
Opioid antagonists in the treatment of alcohol dependence
G O'Leary1, J Borrow, R D Weiss
1Harvard Medical School, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Program, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA. olearyg4@aol.com
Abstract:
This article reviews the use of opioid antagonists in the pharmacologic treatment of alcohol dependence. The rationale for using the opioid antagonists naltrexone and nalmefene to prevent relapse in alcohol-dependent subjects is discussed by reviewing past and current clinical trials. The role of psychotherapies, particularly coping skills therapy, in combination with opioid antagonists is highlighted in the presentations of the clinical data. Finally, future research directions for opioid antagonists are discussed.
More Related Videos
05:40The Motivation for Alcohol Reward: Predictors of Progressive-Ratio Intravenous Alcohol Self-Administration in Humans
Published on: April 28, 2022
09:29Investigating Drivers of Antireward in Addiction Behavior with Anatomically Specific Single-Cell Gene Expression Methods
Published on: August 4, 2022
Related Concept Videos
Drug-Receptor Interaction: Antagonist
Antagonists can be classified as competitive or noncompetitive based on their...
CNS Depressants: Alcohol and Nicotine
Opioid Receptors: Overview
Analgesia and Pain Management
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Depressants
Alcohol is a common depressant that can induce a sense of relaxation and reduced inhibition at low doses. Contrary to its occasional...