Vivitrol is a medication used to prevent drug dependency and relapse, and is used specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription pain killers. Vivitrol is an extended release version of the drug Naltrexone, which one can get via injection once a month. 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 activated by alcohol or opioids, so when someone takes a drink of alcohol or takes opioids they basically can't get drunk or high.
There are particular precautions that need to be taken before an individual begins treatment with Vivitrol. First off, an individual who with the intent to begin Vivitrol needs to have been off of opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This is including clients who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking medications like Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or a person who has been taking Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation can be very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for a minimum of 7 days if they want to begin taking Vivitrol.
These drugs must be used in conjunction with a rehab program in Vermontville that also offers individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak to your doctor or therapist in regards to how pharmacological tools can help you maintain and build the drug and alcohol free life you want.
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