Vivitrol is a medication mainly administered to help prevent drug or alcohol use and relapse, and is used expressly for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release version of the drug Naltrexone, that is available through injection once a month. It isn't addictive, and is what is known as an antagonist. When someone is adminstered Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would normally be triggered by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual drinks or tries to get high on opioids they essentially cannot get drunk or high.
There are particular precautions that should be be taken before someone begins treatment with Vivitrol. First off, an individual who with the intent to start Vivitrol needs to have abstained from opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This is including individuals who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given medications such as Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or someone who has been on Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation can be very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for a minimum of seven days if they want to begin taking Vivitrol.
These medications must be used as part of a treatment program in Ashland that also offers individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. 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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