A 32-year-old member asked:
what are the pros/cons and differences between suboxone, methadone, and naltrexone for heroin addiction?
4 doctor answers • 16 doctors weighed in
Dr. Leonard Spishakoffanswered
Specializes in Addiction Medicine
Many: Each form of treatment is different , Suboxone is a partial agonist and anatgonist which can induce precipted withdrawal when used with opioids, it can be prescribed out of a data licensed physician office. Methadone is a full agonist advantage inexpensive prescribeed at a Methadone cliniccon tolearnce and use of other narcotics.Naltrexone is a anatagonist that is requires abstinence can be costly.
6.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Einar Ottestadanswered
Pain Management 19 years experience
A few: Methadone dosed right binds a bunch of receptors to decrease cravings. However, high dose Methadone has its own risks, including heart issues. An addict can still shoot a huge dose of heroin and get effect. Suboxone decreases cravings but also blocks heroin effect. Suboxone is much more expensive with less od risk. Naltrexone only blocks heroin effect. Does not satiate cravings.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Byron Law-Yoneanswered
Psychiatry 55 years experience
There are many: Methadone is a pure opioid so can be effective but you can get addicted to it also. Have to get it from a licensed Methadone clinic. Naltrexone blocks the opioid receptor so you don't get the desired effects if you try an opioid, it can also cut down cravings.Vivitrol is once a month inj. Of naltrexone. I like Suboxone the most. Takes away cravings and withdrawal, addiction risk low. It works.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Brian Lynchanswered
Family Medicine 38 years experience
Detox: Suboxone most effective and easy to use over a long period of time. It can be expensive but prices have come down. Methadone only available in federally qualified clinics, inexpensive . Trouble is you can still use other opiates with it. Naltrexone is the least effective.
4.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
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Last updated Oct 24, 2017
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