Vivitrol is a medication mainly administered to prevent drug use 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, which one can get via a monthly injection. It is not addictive, and is what is called an antagonist. When an individual takes Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would usually be activated by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual drinks alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they essentially cannot get high or drunk.
There are particular precautions that need to be taken before an individual is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, a client who intends to start Vivitrol needs to have been off of opioids for at least 7-10 days. This is including individuals who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking meds such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin abuser or someone who has been taking Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation is very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for a minimum of seven days in order to start Vivitrol.
These drugs must be used as part of a rehab program in War that also offers medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Speak to your doctor or therapist about how pharmacological aids can help you build the drug and alcohol free life you want.