Vivitrol is a medication mainly administered to help prevent drug dependency and relapse, and is used specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription pain killers. Vivitrol is an extended release type of the drug Naltrexone, which is available through a monthly injection. It is not addictive, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone is adminstered Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would normally be activated by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual drinks alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they basically cannot get high or drunk.
There are particular safety measures that should be be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. First off, an individual who intends to begin Vivitrol needs to have been off of opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This is including individuals who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given meds such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or a person who has been on Methadone for several years, quitting quickly is brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for a minimum of seven days if they want to start Vivitrol.
These medications must be used as part of an addiction treatment program in Merrill which also offers individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Talk with your therapist or Dr. about how pharmacological aids can help you build the sober life you want.
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