Vivitrol is a drug mainly administered to prevent drug or alcohol dependency and relapse, and is used expressly for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release version of the drug Naltrexone, that one can get via a monthly injection. It is not addictive, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone is adminstered Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would normally be activated by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual takes a drink of alcohol or takes opioids they essentially cannot get high or drunk.
There are certain safety measures that should be be taken before an individual is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, someone who plans to begin Vivitrol must have been off of opioids for at least 7-10 days. This includes individuals who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking meds such as Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin abuser or a person who has been taking Methadone for several years, quitting quickly can be 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 in conjunction with a treatment program in Cheshire which also includes medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Talk with your therapist or Dr. in regards to how pharmacological aids can help you build and maintain the sober life you want.
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