Vivitrol Used in Treatment - Alcohol and Drug Treatment Programs - Westport, CT.

Vivitrol is a drug mainly administered to 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 type of the medication Naltrexone, which one can get via injection once a month. It is not habit forming, and is what is known as an antagonist. When someone takes Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would normally be triggered by alcohol or opioids, so when someone takes a drink of alcohol or takes opioids they basically can't get drunk or high.

There are particular precautions that need to be taken before an individual begins treatment with Vivitrol. First off, an individual who with the intent to start Vivitrol must have been off of opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This includes clients who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking medications such as Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin abuser or someone 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 begin taking Vivitrol.

These medications must be used as part of a treatment program in Westport that also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Talk to your therapist or Dr. in regards to how pharmacological tools can help you build and maintain the sober life you want.

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