Vivitrol is a medication used to prevent drug or alcohol abuse and relapse, and is used expressly 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 through injection once a month. It isn't addictive, and is what is known as an antagonist. When someone is adminstered Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be triggered by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual takes a drink of alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they essentially can't get high or drunk.
There are certain precautions that should be be taken before someone begins treatment with Vivitrol. First off, a person who with the intent to start Vivitrol needs to have been off of opioids for a minimum of seven to ten days. This is including individuals who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given drugs like Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin abuser or a person 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 begin taking Vivitrol.
These meds must be used as part of a rehab program in Matewan that also offers individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak to your therapist or Dr. in regards to how pharmacological aids can help you live the sober life you want.
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