Vivitrol is a med 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 is available through a monthly injection. It isn't habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone takes Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would usually be activated by alcohol or opioids, so when someone takes a drink of alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they basically can't get high or drunk.
There are particular safety measures that need to be taken before an individual is administered Vivitrol. First off, an individual who intends to start Vivitrol needs to have been off of opioids for a minimum of seven to ten days. This includes individuals who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given medications such as Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin abuser or a person who has been on Methadone for several years, abrupt cessation is brutal, 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 as part of a rehab program in Genesee that also includes medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Speak with your therapist or doctor about how pharmacological tools can help you maintain the drug-free life you want.
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