Vivitrol is a medication mainly administered to help prevent drug or alcohol abuse and relapse, and is used expressly for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended release type of the med Naltrexone, which is available through a monthly injection. It is not addictive, and is what is called an antagonist. When an individual is adminstered Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be triggered by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual takes a drink of alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they essentially can't get high or drunk.
There are particular precautions that should be be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. First off, an individual who with the intent to start Vivitrol must have been off of opioids for at least 7-10 days. This is including clients who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking drugs like Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin abuser or a person who has been on Methadone for several years, abrupt cessation can be very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for a minimum of 7 days in order to start Vivitrol.
These meds must be used as part of a treatment program in Newtonville which also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak to your doctor or therapist in regards to how pharmacological tools can help you maintain the drug and alcohol free life you want.
For All Alcohol and Drug Treatment Centers In Newtonville, Click Here.