Naltrexone is used to treat AUD by which mechanism?

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Prepare for the Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (CARN) Advanced Practice Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Boost your readiness for the exam!

Multiple Choice

Naltrexone is used to treat AUD by which mechanism?

Explanation:
Naltrexone works by blocking opioid receptors, especially the mu subtype, which reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol. Alcohol increases endogenous opioids that stimulate mu receptors, leading to dopamine release in the mesolimbic pathway and the pleasurable sensations that reinforce drinking. By antagonizing these receptors, naltrexone blunts that reinforcement, lowering cravings and helping prevent relapse. It does not increase GABAergic activity, it does not promote acetaldehyde accumulation (that would be disulfiram’s effect), and it does not stimulate dopamine release—in fact, it tends to blunt the alcohol-induced dopamine surge.

Naltrexone works by blocking opioid receptors, especially the mu subtype, which reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol. Alcohol increases endogenous opioids that stimulate mu receptors, leading to dopamine release in the mesolimbic pathway and the pleasurable sensations that reinforce drinking. By antagonizing these receptors, naltrexone blunts that reinforcement, lowering cravings and helping prevent relapse. It does not increase GABAergic activity, it does not promote acetaldehyde accumulation (that would be disulfiram’s effect), and it does not stimulate dopamine release—in fact, it tends to blunt the alcohol-induced dopamine surge.

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