Vivitrol Used in Treatment - Drug and Alcohol Rehab Programs - North Haven, ME.

Vivitrol is a medication used to help 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, that one can get through a monthly injection. It isn't addictive, and is what is called an antagonist. When an individual injects Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be triggered by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual drinks alcohol or takes opioids they essentially cannot get high or drunk.

There are particular precautions that should be be taken before someone begins treatment with Vivitrol. First off, a person who intends to start Vivitrol needs to have abstained from opioids for at least 7-10 days. This includes people who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking meds such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or someone who has been on Methadone for a long time, quitting quickly is very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for a minimum of 7 days in order to begin taking Vivitrol.

These drugs must be used in conjunction with a treatment program in North Haven that also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Talk to your therapist or doctor in regards to how pharmacological aids can help you maintain and build the drug and alcohol free life you want.

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