Vivitrol is a medication mainly administered to help prevent drug or alcohol dependency 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 medication Naltrexone, that is available via a monthly injection. It is not habit forming, and is what is known as an antagonist. When someone is adminstered Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would normally be triggered by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual takes a drink of alcohol or takes opioids they basically cannot get drunk or high.
There are certain precautions that should be be taken before an individual begins treatment with Vivitrol. Firstly, someone who intends to start Vivitrol must have abstained from opioids for at least 7-10 days. This includes clients who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are being given drugs like Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin abuser or a person who has been taking Methadone for several years, abrupt cessation is very difficult, but withdrawal is something they will have to go through for a minimum of 7 days in order to begin taking Vivitrol.
These meds must be used as part of a rehab program in West Hyannisport which also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak with your doctor or therapist in regards to how pharmacological aids can help you build the drug-free life you want.
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