An implant form of Naltrexone was introduced
as a variation of ReVia® in 2003. Now, Naltrexone implants
are manufactured by several companies, although none of
them have been approved by the FDA yet. Naltrexone implants
are usually used for treatment of opioid dependence. The
implant is surgically placed in the lower abdomen or
posterior. Even with an implant placed, patients have to
take Naltrexone orally for up to a year. The poing of using
a Naltrexone implant is rapid detoxification of the system
(withdrawal that occurs during that process can be rather
dramatic). Rapid detox has to be followed by a period of
regular treatment. However, it is said that using implants
is rather effective as an initial measure in a long-term
treatment.
