FPGEE for National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) Practice Exam

Which two treatments are commonly associated with narcotic detoxification programs?

1. Buprenorphine and Naltrexone

2. Methadone and LAAM

3. Heroin and Morphine

4. Oxycodone and Fentanyl

The correct answer is: Methadone and LAAM

The association of Methadone and LAAM (Levo-alpha-acetylmethadol) with narcotic detoxification programs is rooted in their roles as long-acting opioid agonists. Methadone is a widely used synthetic opioid that helps stabilize patients by alleviating withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with addiction. It allows individuals to function normally while undergoing recovery. LAAM, although less commonly utilized now due to dosing complexities and the availability of other options, also serves a similar purpose in providing long-acting relief from withdrawal symptoms. During detoxification, the goal is to gradually reduce the patient's reliance on more potent narcotics, and both Methadone and LAAM facilitate this process by providing controlled doses that minimize the risk of withdrawal. This method is aimed at reducing the risk of relapse into more harmful drug use while ensuring patient safety and support during the recovery process. The other options, while they may be associated with opioid use, do not have the same role in structured detoxification programs as Methadone and LAAM. Buprenorphine and Naltrexone, although relevant in addiction treatment settings, serve different purposes and have different mechanisms compared to the full agonist approach of Methadone and LAAM. Heroin and Morphine are