Integration of opioid antagonists and psychosocial therapy in the treatment of narcotic and alcohol dependence

Abstract

Numerous studies suggest that an integration of pharmacologic, psychological, and social therapies may lead to improved treatment outcomes for alcohol-dependent patients. This article discusses studies that show the benefits of treating opiate addiction and alcohol dependence with a combination of naltrexone and psychosocial therapies. It also reviews clinical strategies that may maximize the effectiveness of combining pharmacologic and psychosocial therapies for alcoholism. By matching patients with treatments and combining pharmacologic and psychosocial therapies, health care professionals may help alcohol-dependent patients avoid relapse and achieve sobriety. Determining the optimal amount of time an alcohol-dependent patient should be treated with naltrexone requires further study. The value of initiating naltrexone therapy during inpatient treatment should also be explored.