Naloxone and Naltrexone differ When it Comes to Treating Heroin Addictions

Naloxone and Naltrexone differ in some ways but work very much alike when it comes to the way they work to block the effects of heroin withdrawal. Both drugs are used primarily to interrupt the physical and chemical causes of withdrawal, such as the physical dependence of the drug on the body and the intense cravings that heroin addicts face. However, they work differently when it comes to how long the effects of their use may last. Naloxone can have a faster effect than Naltrexone and therefore should not be used for prolonged periods.

When heroin abusers are undergoing this process, their bodies go into what is called anabolism, which means rapid cell regeneration. This leads to a rapid buildup of substances within the human body, such as dopamine and epinephrine, as well as an increase in protein synthesis. Withdrawal from this drug stimulates these substances and increases the intensity of the cravings the user experiences.

Naloxone blocks the effects of these substances, which in turn reduces the amount of time that heroin addicts experience. In addition, Naloxone also decreases the amount of proteins produced by the body. These two processes, in combination, decrease the intensity and frequency of drug seeking behavior and even decrease the possibility that the person will return to this drug. Naloxone does not, however, have any effect on any of the vital organs of the body such as the kidneys, heart, or liver. The drug merely suppresses the need, the user has for a high.

Naltrexone, on the other hand, blocks the effects of narcotics. Because Naltrexone prevents the effects of narcotic withdrawals, it is often used to curb the abuse of heroin and other drugs of abuse such as LSD and ecstasy. This drug is also used to combat alcoholism and is sometimes prescribed to counteract the physical effects of withdrawal from certain prescription drugs. It is, however, very dangerous if not used correctly. Because Naltrexone is an opioid, it is highly addictive.

Naloxone is one of the strongest options and its use has been controversial since heroin was first introduced into the world. Naloxone should only be prescribed by medical professionals to people suffering from an addiction to opiates, especially heroin. For non-medical users, the effects of Naloxone can include nausea, vomiting, severe muscle weakness, tremors, and changes in blood pressure (tachycardia). If you decide to try Naloxone therapy, please consult your doctor. Naloxone and Naltrexone differ so much when it comes to treating an addiction to heroin that you need to only use them under the supervision of a doctor and should always remember to remain completely sober while taking either drug.

When considering Naloxone therapy, you should know that the benefits far outweigh the risks. Naloxone reduces the intensity of physical withdrawal symptoms resulting from long term heroin or prescription drug use, decreases the risk of overdose and death, and decreases the risk of contracting a potentially life-threatening pulmonary infection. Naloxone therapy is a drug of choice for persons addicted to cocaine, heroin, methadone, and a variety of other opiates. However, please speak to a qualified physician before using Naltrexone or any opiate for that matter.