Vivitrol is a drug mainly administered to prevent drug use and relapse, and is used specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release version of the med Naltrexone, which one can get via injection once a month. It is not addictive, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone injects Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be activated by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual drinks or tries to get high on opioids they basically can't get drunk or high.
There are particular safety measures that need to be taken before an individual is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, an individual who with the intent to begin Vivitrol needs to have abstained from opioids for at least 7-10 days. This includes clients who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given drugs like Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or a person who has been on Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation can be brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for a minimum of seven days if they want to start Vivitrol.
These meds must be used as part of an addiction treatment program in Forest Grove which also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Talk with your therapist or Dr. in regards to how pharmacological tools can help you maintain and build the drug and alcohol free life you want.
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