Amphetamines
Naltrexone and amphetamine dependence
While the effects of amphetamines are not directly related to the opiate system, the opiate system and the dopamine system are linked. Therefore increases in dopamine can be limited by blocking the opioid receptors using a drug such as naltrexone. Research conducted by The Karolinska Institute in Sweden and Fresh Start work supports the use of naltrexone in amphetamine patients. The Swedish work involved a trial of oral naltrexone with amphetamine-type drugs and the Fresh Start research investigated naltrexone implants mainly for methamphetamine users.
By using naltrexone, the changes in dopamine concentrations that come from using amphetamines can be reduced. By reducing dopamine, the motivation to use amphetamine and the feeling of reward obtained from using is decreased. The result is decreased cravings, decreased desire to use; and reduction in the ‘feel’ and ‘like’ of the drug.