Vivitrol is a med used 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 medication Naltrexone, that one can get through a monthly injection. It isn't habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone is adminstered Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would normally be activated by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual drinks or tries to get high on opioids they essentially cannot get drunk or high.
There are particular safety measures that need to be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, someone who intends to start Vivitrol must have abstained from opioids for a minimum of 7-10 days. This includes people who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking medications like Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or a person who has been on Methadone for several years, abrupt cessation can be brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for at least seven days if they want to start Vivitrol.
These meds must be used as part of an addiction treatment program in Hammett that also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak to your therapist or Dr. about how pharmacological tools can help you live the drug and alcohol free life you want.
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