Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

What medication is commonly used as an opioid antagonist for treating morphine or heroin addiction?

1. Revia (naltrexone)

2. Suboxone

3. Buprenorphine

4. Vivitrol

The correct answer is: Revia (naltrexone)

The medication commonly used as an opioid antagonist for treating morphine or heroin addiction is naltrexone, which is marketed under the brand name Revia. Naltrexone works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain, thereby reducing the urge to use these substances. When taken, it competes with opioids for binding to the opioid receptors, effectively preventing any reinforcing effects that result from opioid use. This mechanism is particularly useful for individuals recovering from opioid dependency, as it helps to mitigate cravings and decreases the likelihood of relapse. While other medications like Suboxone and buprenorphine are also involved in opioid addiction treatment, they serve different purposes. Suboxone contains buprenorphine, which is a partial agonist. This means it activates opioid receptors but to a much lesser extent than full agonists like heroin and morphine. This property helps in managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings while simultaneously lowering the risk of misuse since it does not provide the same euphoria as full agonists. Vivitrol, on the other hand, is an injectable form of naltrexone and shares the same antagonistic qualities as Revia, making it beneficial for preventing relapse after detox. Thus, the correct option highlights the use of nalt