Vivitrol is a med used to help prevent drug or alcohol use and relapse, and is administered expressly for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release type of the med Naltrexone, that is available through a monthly injection. It is not habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone takes Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would normally be activated by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual drinks or tries to get high on opioids they basically can't get high or drunk.
There are particular safety measures that need to be taken before someone begins treatment with Vivitrol. First off, someone who intends to begin Vivitrol needs to have abstained from opioids for at least 7-10 days. This is including individuals who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking drugs such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or someone who has been on Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation is brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for a minimum of seven days in order to start Vivitrol.
These drugs must be used as part of an addiction treatment program in New Vernon which also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak with your doctor or therapist about how pharmacological aids can help you maintain the sober life you want.
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