Vivitrol is a drug mainly administered to prevent drug abuse and relapse, and is used specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release version of the drug Naltrexone, that is available via a monthly injection. It is not addictive, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone takes Vivitrol, it blocks 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 basically cannot get drunk or high.
There are particular precautions that should be be taken before an individual is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, a person who plans to begin Vivitrol must have abstained from opioids for a minimum of seven to ten days. This includes people who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given drugs such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin abuser or a person who has been on Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation is brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for a minimum of a week if they want to start Vivitrol.
These meds must be used in conjunction with an addiction treatment program in Point Pleasant which also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak to your therapist or doctor about how pharmacological tools can help you maintain and build the drug-free life you want.
For All Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Centers In Point Pleasant, Click Here.