Vivitrol is a medication used to help prevent drug dependency and relapse, and is administered specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription pain killers. Vivitrol is an extended release type of the medication Naltrexone, that one can get via a monthly injection. It is not addictive, and is what is called an antagonist. When an individual takes Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be triggered by opioids or alcohol, so when someone takes a drink of alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they essentially can't get high or drunk.
There are certain precautions that should be be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, a client who intends to begin Vivitrol needs to have been off of opioids for at least 7-10 days. This includes clients who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking meds 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 in order to begin taking Vivitrol.
These drugs must be used as part of a rehab program in Parkville which also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Talk with your therapist or Dr. about how pharmacological aids can help you build the drug-free life you want.
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