Vivitrol is a drug used to help prevent drug dependency and relapse, and is administered specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release type of the medication Naltrexone, which is available through injection once a month. It isn't habit forming, and is what is known as an antagonist. When an individual is adminstered Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would normally be activated by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual drinks or tries to get high on opioids they essentially can't get high or drunk.
There are particular precautions that need to be taken before an individual begins treatment with Vivitrol. First off, an individual who intends to start Vivitrol needs to have abstained from opioids for a minimum of seven to ten days. This includes clients who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given drugs such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or someone who has been on Methadone for several years, quitting quickly can be very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for at least a week if they want to begin taking Vivitrol.
These meds must be used in conjunction with an addiction treatment program in Milanville that also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak with your therapist or doctor in regards to how pharmacological tools can help you build the sober life you want.
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