Vivitrol Used in Treatment - Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Facilities - St. Johns, FL.

Vivitrol is a med used to prevent drug abuse 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 injection once a month. It is not habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When an individual is adminstered Vivitrol, it cuts off the receptors that would usually be activated by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual drinks or tries to get high on opioids they basically can't get drunk or high.

There are certain precautions that should be be taken before an individual is administered Vivitrol. First off, someone who plans to start Vivitrol must have been off of opioids for at least 7-10 days. This includes clients who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking meds such as Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or a person who has been on Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation can be brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for at least 7 days in order to begin taking Vivitrol.

These drugs must be used as part of a treatment program in St. Johns which also includes medical supervision, individual therapy, and group therapy. Speak to your doctor or therapist about how pharmacological aids can help you maintain the sober life you want.

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