Naltrexone VS. Suboxone: Similarities, Differences, and Efficacy

Research conducted on naltrexone and Suboxone show similar efficacy once treatment is induced, despite naltrexone being challenging in terms of induction.

Naltrexone and Suboxone are both opioid medications. Both medications have stark differences despite serving similar purposes. Major differences are related to the following:

• Formula
• Administration route
• Dependence potential

Both Suboxone and naltrexone are FDA-approved prescription medications. This article will delve into the similarities and differences in detail.

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Naltrexone VS. Suboxone: Learn the Difference

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, which means that it completely blocks the effects of opioids. However, it is also widely used as a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Naltrexone is effective as a treatment in the following ways:

• Reduces cravings
• Prevents opioid intoxication
• It may be used as maintenance therapy

Suboxone, on the other hand, is essentially a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. The main ingredient is buprenorphine, which is an opioid agonist. Opioid agonists are agents that act on opioid receptors but do not cause euphoria. Suboxone works in the following ways:

• Satiates cravings by acting like opioids
• Promotes abstinence
• Stabilizes individuals in withdrawal
• Prevents relapse 

Differences Between Suboxone and Naltrexone

The FDA has approved three main medications for opioid treatment (MOUD): methadone, Suboxone, and naltrexone. The following table may help you understand the differences between the two.

Similarities Between Naltrexone VS. Suboxone

• Both treat opioid use disorder
• Naltrexone and Suboxone have similar success rates
• Suboxone has a low abuse potential, and naltrexone is not addictive
• Medications intend to address cravings
• Both may be used long-term to avoid withdrawal
• These medications are usually part of a comprehensive MAT program
• Reduced mortality cases have been reported after treatment from both medications

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What’s Stronger, Suboxone or Naltrexone?

Comparing the Efficacy of Naltrexone and Suboxone

Most of the studies consider naltrexone and Suboxone to be equally effective. In a study, despite induction challenges with naltrexone, the relapse rates of the naltrexone group and the Suboxone group were similar.

Treatment Initiation

Initiation of naltrexone can become difficult because it requires a person to be drug-free. During opioid detox, withdrawal can be intense. This is why administrating Suboxone or other relevant medications is important. Therefore, naltrexone may not be the first choice. However, once a person has undergone detox, Suboxone and naltrexone have, to date, shown no difference in relapse or mortality rate in most studies. 

Convenience

Naltrexone is administered once a month, which is why there is no need for daily dosing. This may be more convenient for some people. However, if the detoxification process is intense, then Suboxone can prove to be a better alternative. A study conducted in a country where methadone and Suboxone are not available showed that naltrexone is an excellent option for stabilizing a patient’s condition. The injectable form of Naltrexone is more effective than the oral form.

Maintenance Therapy

Both treatments can be used in the long term as maintenance therapy. As for Suboxone, you may use it as long as it is needed. Naltrexone is usually given up to 12 weeks after detox. However, this may also be given longer if the doctor deems it necessary. 

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Naltrexone VS. Suboxone: Which One Is Better For Me?

As mentioned above, both medications offer similar benefits. All the literature suggests that buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) and naltrexone have similar positive outcomes. However, pharmacological interventions are not enough on their own. It is important to undergo a comprehensive treatment for opioid addiction. Call 844.445.2565 or enter your information here for appropriate assessment and treatment. 

Which One to Choose?

Your healthcare provider must assess which treatment is better for you. After a thorough conversation, your specialist can devise a personalized treatment per the medical guidelines. If daily dosing is difficult, you can share your concerns with your doctor for an alternative treatment. Communicating with a healthcare specialist is paramount. 

More Information on Naltrexone VS Suboxone

Get your queries answered;

Is Suboxone the Same as Naltrexone?

No, Suboxone has buprenorphine, an opioid agonist, while naltrexone is an opioid antagonist. Naltrexone blocks the effects of opioids by interacting with opioid receptors, while Suboxone works on these receptors to displace the effects of opioids. 

What Are the Negative Effects of Naltrexone?

Some common negative effects of naltrexone include:

• Dizziness
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Body aches
• Loss of appetite

Is Naltrexone a Miracle Drug?

Unfortunately, when it comes to addiction, there is no miracle drug. However, naltrexone is very effective for alcohol use disorder as well as opioid use disorder as it blocks off the effects of opioids. 

Why Is Naloxone Preferred Over Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is long-acting, while naloxone is short-acting. This means that naloxone can act within a few minutes and reverse overdose. Naltrexone cannot do so, which is why it cannot be relied upon when it comes to overdose.

Sources

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