Naltrexone for adolescent opioid use disorder: a bridge in the treatment gap?

Background: Adolescents use heroin as well as prescription opioids. Unfortunately, access to care for adolescents and young adults with opioid use disorder is limited. Naltrexone is a mu opioid receptor antagonist which blocks the effects of opioids, prevents intoxication and physiologic dependence. Here, we present literature on the use of naltrexone for adolescents with opioid use disorder. Method(s): Electronic databases were searched for scientific literature addressing the use of naltrexone in adolescents with opioid use disorder. Result(s): Four scientific articles were found to meet inclusion criteria. A retrospective case-series review in Australian hospitals suggests less overdose events after the implantation of extended-release naltrexone pellets. A case series utilizing extended-release naltrexone injection at a community treatment center found 10 of 16 patients remained in treatment for 4 or more months, 9 of 16 had a "good outcome." Two retrospective cohort studies assessing insurance data found significantly improved retention rates for youth receiving naltrexone compared to behavioral services alone. Conclusion(s): Preliminary data suggest improved risk of overdose events, retention in treatment, and improved outcomes with the use of extended-release naltrexone for youth struggling with opioid use disorder. Copyright © 2021 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.