Vivitrol is a drug mainly administered to help prevent drug or alcohol abuse and relapse, and is used specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release type of the med Naltrexone, which one can get via a monthly injection. It isn't habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone is adminstered Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would normally be triggered by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual takes a drink of alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they basically cannot get drunk or high.
There are certain precautions that should be be taken before an individual begins treatment with Vivitrol. Firstly, a client who plans to begin Vivitrol must have been off of opioids for a minimum of 7-10 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 a person who has been on Methadone for a long time, quitting quickly is very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for at least a week in order to begin taking Vivitrol.
These medications must be used in conjunction with an addiction treatment program in North Pitcher that also includes medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Speak to your therapist or Dr. in regards to how pharmacological aids can help you maintain the drug and alcohol free life you want.
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