Vivitrol Used in Treatment - Alcohol and Drug Rehab Facilities - St. James, MO.

Vivitrol is a drug used to help prevent drug use and relapse, and is administered expressly for alcohol and opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription pain killers. Vivitrol is an extended-release type of the med Naltrexone, that is available via injection once a month. It is not habit forming, and is what is known as an antagonist. When someone injects Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be activated by alcohol or opioids, so when someone takes a drink of alcohol or takes opioids they basically can't get high or drunk.

There are particular safety measures that should be be taken before an individual begins treatment with Vivitrol. First off, someone who intends to start Vivitrol needs to have abstained from opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This is including people who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking drugs like Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or a person who has been on Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation can be very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for at least a week in order to start Vivitrol.

These medications must be used in conjunction with a rehab program in St. James which also includes medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Talk to your therapist or Dr. about how pharmacological aids can help you maintain and build the drug and alcohol free life you want.

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