Naltrexone Therapy Options
IMPLANTS
These are specially formulated, sterilised preparations of Naltrexone that can be inserted under the skin during a 20-30 minute minor surgical procedure. We offer several varieties that have different approximate lengths of action; currently approximately 6 week, approximately 3 month, and approximately 6 month types.
(NB. It is impossible to say precisely how long an implant will last in any individual, e.g. one person may get blockade for 9 months, another for 4 months from the same 6 month type of implant – we ‘approximate’ the duration of action from our experience and the studies available. It is what most people (e.g. 80%) can expect to get, but some (e.g.10%) get more and some (e.g.10%) get less.)
Implants do not have product licences yet and are still regarded as experimental. However, their use is ‘legal’ and evidence so far indicates that they are generally safe and effective. The Stapleford Centre and other clinics worldwide have implanted thousands of people over more than 10 years.
(NB. Medicines often get used without a product licence which is eventually granted.)
DEPOT INJECTION
This is a specially formulated, sterilised, liquid preparation of Naltrexone that can be injected into deep muscle. The Naltrexone is slowly released over approximately one month. The advantage is that no operation is needed and therefore no lump or scar is visible. The disadvantage is that it only lasts approximately one month so more commitment from the patient is required to have it repeated as necessary without relapsing in between. Currently, it does not have a product licence.
(See implants above.)
TABLETS
These are usually swallowed daily and it is best that consumption is supervised. If not taken for a couple of days, relapse to opiate use is possible.
Tablets do have a product licence.
WARNING!
It is dangerous to take large doses of opiates in an attempt to override the blockade provided by Naltrexone. After a period of Naltrexone therapy, as the Naltrexone blockade wears off, you will be vulnerable to opiate overdose as you will have lost your previous tolerance. Attempting to use your ‘usual’ amount of heroin, methadone or other opiate will probably kill you.
BE VERY WARY!