Vivitrol is a medication used to prevent drug or alcohol use and relapse, and is used specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended release version of the drug Naltrexone, which one can get through a monthly injection. It is not habit forming, and is what is known as an antagonist. When someone is adminstered Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would normally be activated by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual takes a drink of alcohol or takes opioids they basically can't get high or drunk.
There are certain precautions that need to be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. First off, a client who plans to start Vivitrol must have been off of opioids for a minimum of seven to ten days. This includes clients who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given meds like Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or someone who has been taking Methadone for several years, quitting quickly is very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for at least seven days in order to start Vivitrol.
These medications must be used as part of an addiction treatment program in Washington that also includes medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Speak to your therapist or doctor in regards to how pharmacological tools can help you maintain the sober life you want.
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