Which FDA-approved medications are used to treat opioid use disorder?

Methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone are all FDA-approved medications used to treat opioid use disorder, each functioning in distinct ways to support recovery.

Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, allowing individuals to stabilize and focus on their recovery. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as other opioids, but it does so in a way that reduces the risk of euphoric highs while still providing enough effects to alleviate withdrawal.

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which means it activates opioid receptors less intensely than full agonists like methadone. This property helps diminish cravings and withdrawal symptoms, while also limiting the potential for misuse or overdose. Buprenorphine is often combined with naloxone to deter misuse.

Naltrexone, on the other hand, is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids. It is used after detoxification and helps prevent relapse by counteracting the euphoric effects of opioids if they are used.

Together, these three medications provide a comprehensive approach to managing opioid use disorder, allowing for tailored treatment plans that can meet the diverse needs of individuals in recovery.