there are several medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat opioid addiction. These medications are part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs, which combine medication with counseling and behavioral therapies to effectively manage opioid addiction. Here are some of the main medications used:
Methadone: Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the euphoric effects of other opioids. It is usually dispensed in specialized clinics.
Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that works by binding to the same receptors as other opioids but with a milder effect. It helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Suboxone is a brand-name combination product containing buprenorphine and naloxone.
Naltrexone: Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids. It is available in both oral and injectable formulations. The injectable form (Vivitrol) is administered monthly.
Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone): As mentioned earlier, Suboxone is a combination medication containing buprenorphine and naloxone. Naloxone is added to prevent misuse; if the medication is taken as prescribed, naloxone has limited effects. However, if someone tries to inject Suboxone, the naloxone component will precipitate opioid withdrawal.
Buprenorphine Monotherapy: Buprenorphine can also be prescribed as a standalone medication for opioid addiction treatment.
it's possible that there may be new medications or updates in treatment options beyond that date.