Vivitrol is a med mainly administered to prevent drug use 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, which is available via a monthly injection. It is not habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When an individual injects Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would usually be activated by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual takes a drink of alcohol or takes opioids they essentially cannot get drunk or high.
There are particular safety measures that need to be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, a client who plans to start Vivitrol needs to have abstained from opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This includes clients who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking drugs like Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or a person who has been on Methadone for several years, quitting quickly can be brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for a minimum of 7 days if they want to begin taking Vivitrol.
These medications must be used in conjunction with a treatment program in Hometown which also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Talk to your therapist or Dr. in regards to how pharmacological tools can help you build the drug and alcohol free life you want.
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