Vivitrol Used in Treatment - Alcohol and Drug Treatment Centers - West Chicago, IL.

Vivitrol is a medication mainly administered to help prevent drug or alcohol 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 drug Naltrexone, that one can get through injection once a month. It isn't habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone injects Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would usually be triggered by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual drinks or takes opioids they essentially cannot get drunk or high.

There are particular precautions that should be be taken before an individual is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, an individual who intends to start Vivitrol must have been off of opioids for at least 7-10 days. This includes clients who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking meds such as Buprenorphine or Methadone. For a heroin addict or a person who has been taking Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation can be very difficult, 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 a rehab program in West Chicago which also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak with your therapist or doctor in regards to how pharmacological tools can help you build and maintain the sober life you want.

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