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 pain killers. Vivitrol is an extended release version of the med Naltrexone, that is available via injection once a month. It is not habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When an individual injects Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be activated by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual takes a drink of alcohol or takes opioids they essentially can't get high or drunk.
There are particular precautions that need to be taken before an individual is administered Vivitrol. First off, someone who intends to start Vivitrol must have abstained from opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This is including individuals who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking drugs like Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or a person who has been on Methadone for several years, quitting quickly is very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for at least seven days if they want to begin taking Vivitrol.
These medications must be used as part of an addiction treatment program in Harwick that also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak with your therapist or Dr. about how pharmacological aids can help you live the drug and alcohol free life you want.
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