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[Maintenance treatment for opiate dependence at a naltrexone clinic]
J J López-Ibor Aliño1, J C Pérez de los Cobos, E Ochoa
1Catedrático de Psiquiatría, Jefe del Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Ramón y Cajal.
Actas Luso-Espanolas De Neurologia, Psiquiatria Y Ciencias Afines
|September 1, 1990
Summary
Naltrexone maintenance treatment for opioid dependence showed 46% of patients remained drug-free at six months. However, it increased alcohol consumption while decreasing cocaine use.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Addiction Medicine
- Neuroendocrinology
- Clinical Psychology
Context:
- Opioid dependence poses significant public health challenges.
- Maintenance treatment aims to prevent relapse and reduce harm.
- Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of addiction is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy of Naltrexone (350 mg/week) as a maintenance treatment for opioid-dependent patients.
- To assess the impact of Naltrexone on drug use patterns, including alcohol and cocaine consumption.
- To investigate stress response and cortisol secretion in opioid-addicted individuals.
Summary:
- A study involving 50 opioid-dependent patients receiving Naltrexone (350 mg/week) maintenance treatment showed 46% remained drug-free at six months.
- The treatment, delivered in an outpatient setting after inpatient care, led to increased alcohol consumption but decreased cocaine use, persisting post-treatment.
- Fenfluramine stimulation tests revealed elevated basal cortisol levels and blunted stress responses in patients compared to controls.
Impact:
- Naltrexone may be effective in maintaining opioid abstinence but requires careful monitoring for associated increases in alcohol intake.
- Findings suggest distinct neuroendocrine profiles in opioid addiction, potentially influencing treatment response.
- This research contributes to understanding the complex interplay between opioid dependence, substance use patterns, and stress reactivity.