Adolescent Substance Abuse Articles
New heroin treatment does not rely on addictive substances
By Staff Writer
In a recent study, Norwegian researchers may have found a new heroin treatment that does not rely on the use of other addictive substances.
According to the study, a common treatment for heroin addicts involves the use of substances that resemble morphine. Though it can help reduce one's heroin use, it also has its own addictive qualities.
Researchers behind the study used the substance known as naltrexone, which blocks the effects of heroin and other morphine substances. In addition to reducing the chances of an overdose, physical dependency and other drug cravings, naltrexone induces a calm feeling in the body.
The study included around 56 heroin-dependent patients who had undergone detoxification treatment in drug rehab and were motivated to stay drug-free. Half of these participants received 20 implanted pellets containing naltrexone, which would create the blocking effect over a six-month period.
After this time had passed, the researchers found that 11 out of 23 participants in the naltrexone group managed to abstain from heroin. These individuals also reported that they were satisfied with their treatment.
Based on these findings, the researchers believe that naltrexone should become an important treatment option for individuals who seek substance abuse help for their heroin addiction.
