Final answer:
Naltrexone is an oral medication taken in doses of 50 to 100 mg suitable for chronic therapy in narcotic treatment programs and blocks the effects of opioids. Vivitrol is an extended-release, injectable form of naltrexone administered monthly to prevent opioid relapse and treat alcohol dependence. Naloxone is a short-acting narcotic antagonist used to reverse opioid overdose and requires parenteral administration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between naltrexone and Vivitrol lies primarily in their form and method of administration. Naltrexone, which was clinically available in 1985, is an oral medication taken in doses of 50 to 100 mg that is well absorbed and has a long-acting effect, making it suitable for chronic therapy in narcotic treatment programs. It effectively blocks the effects of opioids, with little to no effect felt by the individual if an opiate is subsequently injected.
On the other hand, Vivitrol is an extended-release, injectable version of naltrexone. It's administered monthly and is used to prevent relapse in opioid-dependent patients after opioid detox as well as for treating alcohol dependence. This formulation allows for convenience and ensures compliance with the treatment regimen, which can be an issue with daily medications.
Unlike naltrexone, naloxone is a short-acting narcotic antagonist that is used to rapidly reverse opioid overdose, including respiratory depression. Naloxone requires a parenteral route of administration and, therefore, cannot be taken orally, which limits its use to emergency situations and in healthcare settings.