Vivitrol is a medication mainly administered to help prevent drug or alcohol dependency 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 medication Naltrexone, that is available via a monthly injection. It isn't habit forming, and is what is called an antagonist. When someone takes Vivitrol, it blocks the receptors that would usually be triggered by opioids or alcohol, so when an individual drinks alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they essentially cannot get high or drunk.
There are particular precautions that should be be taken before an individual is administered Vivitrol. First off, a client who plans to start Vivitrol must have abstained from opioids for at least 7-10 days. This includes clients who are involved in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking drugs like Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or a person who has been on Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation is brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for at least 7 days if they want to start Vivitrol.
These drugs must be used as part of an addiction treatment program in Mason City which also offers individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak with your therapist or doctor in regards to how pharmacological tools can help you live the drug and alcohol free life you want.
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