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Previous studies have shown that naltrexone reduces short-term (hours) smoking behavior, suggesting that endogenous opioid peptides may mediate the reinforcing properties of smoking. This parallel group, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of naltrexone on smoking behavior over three days in a non-laboratory setting in 43 moderate smokers (at least 10 cigarettes daily).
After a day of ward acclimation and a day of baseline measurement, volunteers were randomized to receive naltrexone (50 mg) or placebo twice daily and instructed to continue smoking as usual. Cigarettes were freely provided. Naltrexone-treated patients smoked fewer cigarettes, had lower nicotine levels, and reported reduced satisfaction with smoking. Measures of moo…