Vivitrol is a medication used to help prevent drug or alcohol use and relapse, and is administered expressly for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription pain killers. Vivitrol is an extended-release version of the med Naltrexone, that one can get via a monthly injection. It is not habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone injects Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would usually be activated by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual drinks or tries to get high on opioids they basically can't get drunk or high.
There are certain precautions that should be be taken before an individual begins treatment with Vivitrol. Firstly, an individual who intends to start Vivitrol must have been off of opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This includes individuals who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking medications like Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or someone who has been taking Methadone for several years, abrupt cessation is brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for at least seven days if they want to start Vivitrol.
These medications must be used as part of an addiction treatment program in Ninety Six which also includes medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Talk with your therapist or doctor about how pharmacological tools can help you build and maintain the drug-free life you want.
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