Naltrexone is a medication with interesting properties. Let’s dive into the details:
Mechanism of Action:
- Naltrexone is a pure opiate antagonist, meaning it has little or no agonist activity.
- Its mechanism of action in alcoholism treatment is not fully understood, but preclinical data suggest involvement of the endogenous opioid system1.
Indications:
- Naltrexone is indicated for:
- Alcohol Dependence: It helps reduce alcohol cravings and prevent relapse.
- Opioid Blockade: It blocks the effects of exogenously administered opioids.
- It is particularly useful in maintaining abstinence from alcohol and opioids.
- Naltrexone is indicated for:
Chemical Information:
- CAS Number: 16590-41-3
- Molecular Formula: C20H23NO4
- Molecular Weight: 341.41 g/mol (anhydrous form)