A Demonstration Project Implementing Extended-Release Naltrexone in Los Angeles County

Abstract

These findings reflect a higher XR-NTX cessation rate and a lower average number of doses, in contrast to similar demonstration projects in community settings with patients on parole or probation. However, this study shows that it is feasible to engage treatment providers in the use XR-NTX among their patients with alcohol or opioid use disorders. Several implications for future research and implementation are discussed.

Predictors of induction onto extended-release naltrexone among unemployed heroin-dependent adults

“…Participants coming from longer-term detoxification programs (mean duration = 35.1 days, SD = 27.5) were substantially more likely to be inducted on XR-NTX compared to participants coming from shorter-term detoxification programs (mean duration = 7.0 days, SD = 4.9). This finding is consistent with observational data collected in an XR-NTX implementation study in Los Angeles, CA that found patients receiving XR-NTX were significantly more likely to have been referred from residential treatment (47.5% vs. 16.5%) and less likely to have been referred from outpatient treatment (32.5% vs. 67.5%) than patients who did not receive XR-NTX (Cousins, et al, 2016).…”

Effectiveness, safety and feasibility of extended‐release naltrexone for opioid dependence: a 9‐month follow‐up to a 3‐month randomized trial

“…Similar to the preceding RCT phase and other XR‐NTX studies , the majority of the adverse events were withdrawal‐related and reported following the first administration of XR‐NTX . While we administered the first XR‐NTX injection after a minimum 72 hours of complete abstinence from any opioids, other studies have recommended a longer period of abstinence . Extending the number of opioid‐free days would have reduced the amount of adverse events and eased the induction phase.…”

Antagonists in the medical management of opioid use disorders: Historical and existing treatment strategies

“…This long‐acting formulation can be given in a wide range of clinical settings, including primary care and criminal justice systems 13, 14. However, there is limited experience with this drug medication outside specialized treatment settings.…”