Effectiveness of naltrexone

• How effective is naltrexone for gambling addiction?

  • Lahti et al. (2010): Tested gamblers instructed to take naltrexone before gambling.
  • Found significant reductions in gambling behavior.
  • Further placebo-controlled studies needed.
• What did NICE find about naltrexone for opioid addiction?

  • 17 studies reviewed—results were mixed.
  • Some trials found no significant difference between naltrexone and a placebo.
  • When data was pooled, naltrexone was linked to lower relapse rates, especially in highly motivated patients receiving close supervision.