Vivitrol is a drug mainly administered to prevent drug or alcohol use and relapse, and is administered specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription pain killers. Vivitrol is an extended release version of the drug Naltrexone, that is available through a monthly injection. It is not addictive, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone is adminstered Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be triggered by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual drinks alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they essentially can't get drunk or high.
There are certain precautions that need to be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, a person who with the intent to begin Vivitrol must have been off of opioids for at least seven to ten days. This includes clients who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given drugs like Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or a person who has been taking Methadone for a long time, quitting quickly is brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for a minimum of a week if they want to begin taking Vivitrol.
These drugs must be used in conjunction with an addiction treatment program in Centerbrook which also includes medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Talk with your doctor or therapist in regards to how pharmacological aids can help you maintain and build the drug-free life you want.
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