Vivitrol is a med mainly administered to prevent drug use and relapse, and is administered specifically for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription medications. Vivitrol is an extended-release type of the drug Naltrexone, which is available through injection once a month. 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 normally be triggered by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual takes a drink of alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they basically can't get high or drunk.
There are particular safety measures that should be be taken before someone begins treatment with Vivitrol. Firstly, a client who plans to start Vivitrol must have abstained from opioids for at least seven to ten days. This is including people who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given drugs like Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or someone who has been taking Methadone for several years, abrupt cessation can be very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for a minimum of 7 days if they want to begin taking Vivitrol.
These medications must be used in conjunction with an addiction treatment program in Little Canada that also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Talk with your therapist or doctor about how pharmacological aids can help you maintain and build the sober life you want.
For All Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Centers In Little Canada, Click Here.