Vivitrol Used in Treatment - Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation Centers - Sterling, VA.

Vivitrol is a med used to 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 med Naltrexone, that is available via 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 activated by alcohol or opioids, so when an individual drinks alcohol or tries to get high on opioids they basically cannot get drunk or high.

There are particular safety measures that need to be taken before someone is administered Vivitrol. Firstly, an individual who plans to begin Vivitrol must have abstained from opioids for a minimum of seven to ten days. This includes individuals who are participating in opioid maintenance therapy and are taking meds like Methadone or Buprenorphine. For a heroin addict or a person who has been taking Methadone for a long time, abrupt cessation is brutal, but withdrawal is something they will have to endure for a minimum of a week in order to start Vivitrol.

These meds must be used in conjunction with a treatment program in Sterling that also includes individual therapy, group therapy and medical supervision. Speak to your doctor or therapist about how pharmacological aids can help you build and maintain the sober life you want.

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