Vivitrol is a med 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 version of the medication Naltrexone, which is available via a monthly injection. It is not habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When an individual takes Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would normally be triggered by alcohol or opioids, so when someone drinks or takes opioids they basically cannot get high or drunk.
There are particular precautions that need to be taken before an individual is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, a client who with the intent to begin Vivitrol must have abstained from opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This is including people who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking medications like Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or someone who has been on Methadone for several years, abrupt cessation can be brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for at least a week if they want to start Vivitrol.
These drugs must be used in conjunction with a treatment program in Alma that also offers medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Speak with your doctor or therapist in regards to how pharmacological aids can help you maintain the drug-free life you want.
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