Long-acting depot formulations of naltrexone for heroin dependence: a review.
OBJECTIVE
The major problem with the oral formulation of naltrexone for heroin dependence is poor compliance (adherence). Long-acting sustained release formulations of naltrexone (implantable and injectable) might help to improve compliance and, thus, increase the efficacy of abstinence-oriented treatment of heroin dependence with naltrexone.


RESULTS
There have been several implantable and injectable formulations of naltrexone developed within the last decade. It was demonstrated that some of them are effective and relatively well tolerated medications for relapse prevention in heroin addicts. However, advantages and disadvantages of these new medications have never been systematically analyzed.


CONCLUSIONS
Long-acting sustained release formulations of naltrexone are well tolerated and more effective for relapse prevention in heroin addicts than the oral ones.
Krupitsky
Evgeny M
EM
Laboratory of Clinical Psychopharmacology of Addictions, Valdman Institute of Pharmacology, St Petersburg State Pavlov Medical University, St Petersburg, Russia. kru@ek3506.spb.edu
Blokhina
Elena A
EA
D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D004343:Drug Implants; D006556:Heroin Dependence / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D007273:Injections, Intramuscular; D055118:Medication Adherence / Q000523:psychology; D009271:Naltrexone / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D009292:Narcotic Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D055502:Secondary Prevention
D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D004343:Drug Implants; D009292:Narcotic Antagonists; D009271:Naltrexone