Vivitrol Used in Treatment - Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers - Grand Portage, MN.

Vivitrol is a drug mainly administered to prevent drug or alcohol abuse and relapse, and is administered specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release version of the medication Naltrexone, which one can get via a monthly injection. It is not habit forming, and is what is known as an antagonist. When an individual injects Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be triggered by opioids or alcohol, so when someone drinks alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they essentially can't get drunk or high.

There are certain precautions that should be be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. First off, an individual who intends to start Vivitrol needs to have abstained from opioids for at least 7-10 days. This includes people who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given drugs such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or a person who has been on Methadone for several years, abrupt cessation can be very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for at least 7 days if they want to begin taking Vivitrol.

These medications must be used in conjunction with an addiction treatment program in Grand Portage that also includes medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Speak to your therapist or doctor in regards to how pharmacological aids can help you maintain the sober life you want.

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