Vivitrol Used in Treatment - Alcohol and Drug Treatment Programs - DHS, MD.

Vivitrol is a medication used to prevent drug abuse and relapse, and is used specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription pain killers. Vivitrol is an extended release version of the drug Naltrexone, that one can get via injection once a month. It is not addictive, and is what is known as an antagonist. When an individual injects Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be activated by opioids or alcohol, so when someone drinks or takes opioids they essentially cannot get high or drunk.

There are certain precautions that should be be taken before an individual begins treatment with Vivitrol. Firstly, someone who with the intent to start Vivitrol must have abstained from opioids for a minimum of seven to ten days. This includes individuals who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given drugs such as Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin abuser or someone who has been taking Methadone for a long time, quitting quickly can be very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for at least seven days if they want to start Vivitrol.

These meds must be used in conjunction with a rehab program in DHS which also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak with your therapist or doctor about how pharmacological tools can help you maintain and build the drug-free life you want.

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