List of the FDA-approved medications for opioid addiction

Naltrexone

A non-narcotic pharmaceutical that blocks opioid receptors in the brain so that opioids will not provide any effect. Its injectable form is Vivitrol, and it is given monthly. It can be prescribed in a pill form to start, and an implant is in research. The naltrexone pill is also used for those with alcohol addiction.

Buprenorphine

A synthetic opiate that partially fills the brain's opioid receptors. It reduces cravings and prevents withdrawal symptoms. The commonly prescribed type usually contains naloxone, the antidote for opioid overdose. Suboxone the brand of buprenorphine with naloxone. The medication can be taken in a pill or dissolving form. It's also been approved in an implant and an injectable form.

Suboxone

The brand name of a prescription medicine that contains the active ingredients buprenorphine and naloxone used to treat adults who are addicted to opioids. 

Naloxone

A non-narcotic, generic form of Narcan, a drug that can be injected or sprayed into nostrils to revive people who've overdosed on opioids. It causes almost immediate withdrawal and can restore breathing in patients. It is used for revival but not as treatment for opioid-use disorder. 

Methadone

A synthetic opiate that fills the opioid receptors in the brain. It reduces cravings and prevents withdrawal symptoms. It's regulated to stabilize patients so they can function well without euphoria. It's provided in a highly structured and federally regulated clinical setting in a liquid form.