Vivitrol is a medication used to help prevent drug or alcohol 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, that 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 usually be triggered by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual drinks or tries to get high on opioids they essentially cannot get drunk or high.
There are certain precautions that need to be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, an individual who plans to begin Vivitrol needs to have abstained from opioids for a minimum of seven to ten days. This includes people who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking drugs such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin abuser or someone who has been taking Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation is very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for at least 7 days if they want to begin taking Vivitrol.
These medications must be used as part of an addiction treatment program in Mount Bethel which also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Talk with your therapist or Dr. about how pharmacological tools can help you build the sober life you want.
For All Drug and Alcohol Treatment Programs In Mount Bethel, Click Here.