naltrexone

noun

nal·trex·one nal-ˈtrek-ˌsōn

: a synthetic opiate antagonist C₂₀H₂₃NO₄ administered in the form of its hydrochloride

Examples of naltrexone in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Opioid use disorder can be treated with buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone. — Ciara McCarthy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Oct. 2025 Medications like naltrexone can reduce heavy drinking and cravings, and research shows that starting treatment in the emergency department can improve quality of life. — Jonathan Hunt-Glassman, Fortune, 2 Apr. 2026 The prescription opioid pill, called naltrexone, was first approved by the FDA to treat opioid dependence in 1984. — Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 7 Jan. 2026 Some medications, like naltrexone and buprenorphine, are used specifically to prevent relapse in people trying to recover from opioid use disorder. — Jon Hamilton, NPR, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for naltrexone

Word History

Etymology

N-allyl + trex- (as in methotrexate) + -one

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of naltrexone was in 1973

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naloxone

naltrexone

Nalubaale Dam

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Style

“Naltrexone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naltrexone. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

naltrexone

noun

nal·trex·one nal-ˈtrek-ˌsōn

: a synthetic opiate antagonist administered especially in the form of its hydrochloride C₂₀H₂₃NO₄·HCl to maintain a drug-free state in detoxified opiate-dependent patients or to maintain abstinence in alcohol-dependent patients

naltrexone

noun

Examples of naltrexone in a Sentence

Word History

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Cite this Entry

Medical Definition

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