Vivitrol is a drug used to prevent drug or alcohol 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 is available through injection once a month. It is not habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When an individual takes Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would normally be triggered by opioids or alcohol, so when someone takes a drink of alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they essentially cannot get high or drunk.
There are particular precautions that should be be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, a person who plans to begin Vivitrol needs to have abstained from opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This includes people who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given medications such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. 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 endure for at least a week in order to begin taking Vivitrol.
These meds must be used in conjunction with a treatment program in Macungie that also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak with your doctor or therapist about how pharmacological aids can help you live the sober life you want.
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