Vivitrol Used in Treatment - Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation Centers - Norman, NC.

Vivitrol is a med used to prevent drug or alcohol abuse and relapse, and is administered specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release type of the drug Naltrexone, which one can get through injection once a month. It is not addictive, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone injects Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would normally be activated by opioids or alcohol, so when someone drinks or tries to get high on opioids they basically cannot get high or drunk.

There are certain precautions that need to be taken before someone begins treatment with Vivitrol. Firstly, an individual who intends to start Vivitrol needs to have been off of opioids for at least 7-10 days. This includes people who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given medications like Buprenorphine or Methadone. 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 endure for at least seven days if they want to start Vivitrol.

These medications must be used as part of a treatment program in Norman that also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Talk with your therapist or Dr. about how pharmacological aids can help you maintain the drug-free life you want.

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