Vivitrol is a med used to prevent drug or alcohol abuse and relapse, and is used expressly for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release type of the drug Naltrexone, that one can get via a monthly injection. It isn't habit forming, and is what is known as an antagonist. When an individual takes Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would normally be activated by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual takes a drink of alcohol or takes opioids they essentially can't get drunk or high.
There are particular precautions that need to be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, an individual who intends to start Vivitrol must have abstained from opioids for at least 7-10 days. This is including individuals who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given drugs such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or a person who has been taking Methadone for several years, abrupt cessation is very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for a minimum of 7 days if they want to begin taking Vivitrol.
These medications must be used as part of an addiction treatment program in Stratford that also offers medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Talk to your doctor or therapist in regards to how pharmacological tools can help you maintain the sober life you want.
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