[Naltrexone and prevention of opiate dependence relapse. An Italian experience]

A group of 93 patients consecutively treated for Opiate Dependence (DSM) III) was examined and the relationship between detoxification outcome and treatment with an opiate antagonist (naltrexone), sociodemographic characteristics and clinical features was studied. The treatment with naltrexone followed detoxification in 46 cases (50%). Average retention is 16.7 weeks, much longer than reported in the literature. This outcome is ascribed to: 1) better social adjustment of the population considered, in terms of employment, relatives' involvement in the treatment and Opiate Dependence in partners; 2) introduction of naltrexone in a multimodal program, including psychological and social support.