Naloxone and naltrexone are opioid antagonists that block the effects of opioids and other street drugs.
These drugs belong to the same class but have different FDA-approved uses.
Naloxone is a fast-acting emergency medication that reverses opioid overdoses.
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It can be administered by anyone to restore breathing.
Naltrexone, in contrast, is used under medical supervision to support long-termrecovery from opioidsand alcohol after withdrawal.
Since its effects wear off quickly, more than one dose may be needed before medical help arrives.
It is available as a daily pill or a monthly injection.
However, it does not treat withdrawal symptoms or reverse overdoses.
How can I obtain naloxone or naltrexone?
In many states,naloxoneis available at pharmacies without a prescription.
Buprenorphine helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, while naloxone is added to deter misuse.
However, if someone tries to inject it, naloxone can trigger withdrawal, making misuse less likely.
Naloxone itself is not FDA-approved for treating opioid dependence.
Below are the recommended doses and instructions for each.
Naloxone
Naloxone is available as a nasal spray or prefilled injection.
Naloxone nasal sprays come in different strengths.
However, over-the-counter naloxone (Narcan) contains four milligrams (mg) of naloxone per spray.
To administer it:
Naltrexone
Naltrexone is available in both pill and injectable forms.
It is generally advised to abstain from opioids for seven to 10 days before beginning naltrexone.
Those transitioning frommethadonemust be completely withdrawn before taking naltrexone.
If no withdrawal symptoms occur after one hour, another 25 mg may be taken.
Dosing for children must be determined by a medical professional.
Can I use naloxone or naltrexone on myself?
you’ve got the option to use naloxone on yourself if youre awake and able.
Anyone, with or without medical training, can give naloxone to reverse an opioid overdose.
In contrast, naltrexone cannot be used in an emergency and should only be taken under medical supervision.
Comparing Efficacy
Naloxone quickly reverses opioid overdoses, making it the standard emergency treatment.
However, it does not treat opioid dependence or withdrawal symptoms.
Naltrexone works best for long-term relapse prevention.
Research shows it reduces cravings and helps people stay opioid-free longer than a placebo.
However, it does not work if opioids are still in the system and requires detox before starting.
Both medications are effective and relatively safe, though their uses, dosing, and potential side effects differ.
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