What is the primary therapeutic action of Naltrexone?

Naltrexone's primary therapeutic action is to block opioid receptors, specifically the mu-opioid receptors, in the brain. This is crucial in treating individuals with opioid use disorder, as it prevents the euphoric effects of opioid drugs and helps reduce cravings. By occupying these receptors, Naltrexone effectively diminishes the reinforcing effects of opioids, making it less likely for individuals to relapse into drug use.

While other medications may address smoking cravings or stimulate nicotine receptors, those are not the functions of Naltrexone. Additionally, Naltrexone is not a cure for alcoholism; rather, it is used as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan to help manage alcohol dependence by reducing the alcohol's pleasurable effects. Thus, the blocking of opioid receptors is key to its mechanism in treating opioid use disorder and supporting individuals in their recovery journey.