Naltrexone is primarily used for what purpose in opioid addiction treatment?

Naltrexone is primarily used in the treatment of opioid addiction to prevent cravings. It works as an opioid antagonist, meaning it binds to the same receptors in the brain that opioids do but does not activate them. By occupying these receptors, naltrexone blocks the euphoric effects of opioid drugs, thus reducing the likelihood of relapse. This is particularly important in helping individuals who are recovering from addiction maintain sobriety by diminishing the intense cravings that can lead to drug-seeking behavior.

In the context of the other choices, naltrexone does not provide pain relief, as its primary function is not analgesic but rather to inhibit the effects of opioids. It also does not induce withdrawal symptoms; instead, it can precipitate withdrawal in someone who is actively using opioids by blocking their effects. Lastly, it certainly does not enhance the effects of opioids; on the contrary, it is specifically designed to counteract those effects, making it a strategic choice in the treatment and management of opioid dependence.