Which medication might be used to facilitate the discontinued use of narcotics in addicts?

Which medication might be used to facilitate the discontinued use of narcotics in addicts?

• A. Naltrexone
• B. Diantin
• C. Cerebyx
• D. Wellbutrin

Answer: (A)

Using an opioid receptor antagonist to deter relapse is the approach here. Naltrexone blocks mu-opioid receptors, so opioids no longer produce the rewarding effects; this helps maintain abstinence after detoxification by removing the reinforcement that drives continued use. It’s important to start after withdrawal has resolved, because starting while opioids are still active can precipitate withdrawal rather than help with cessation. The other medications listed don’t target opioid dependence in this way. Diantin (phenytoin) and Cerebyx (fosphenytoin) are anticonvulsants used to prevent seizures, not to curb opioid craving or block effects. Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an antidepressant sometimes used for smoking cessation, but it does not block opioid receptors and isn’t used to facilitate stopping narcotics.

Using an opioid receptor antagonist to deter relapse is the approach here. Naltrexone blocks mu-opioid receptors, so opioids no longer produce the rewarding effects; this helps maintain abstinence after detoxification by removing the reinforcement that drives continued use. It’s important to start after withdrawal has resolved, because starting while opioids are still active can precipitate withdrawal rather than help with cessation.

The other medications listed don’t target opioid dependence in this way. Diantin (phenytoin) and Cerebyx (fosphenytoin) are anticonvulsants used to prevent seizures, not to curb opioid craving or block effects. Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an antidepressant sometimes used for smoking cessation, but it does not block opioid receptors and isn’t used to facilitate stopping narcotics.