Once-Monthly Vivitrol Injections
Medicated treatment for opioid addiction and alcohol dependency
Supporting recovery by helping to prevent relapses & decrease cravings
What is Vivitrol?
VIVITROL is a non-addictive, once-monthly, injectable prescription medicine. It is the extended-release version of a medication called Naltrexone. It is only available by prescription and must be administered by a qualified professional in a clinical setting
Relapse Prevention:
It is used primarily to help prevent relapsing to opioid dependence after completing detox
Decrease Cravings:
Vivitrol is also used to treat alcohol dependence in patients who are able to abstain from alcohol in an outpatient setting before they start treatment
How does Vivitrol work?
Vivitrol blocks the opioid receptors in the brain that allow us to feel the pleasurable effects of opioids. It has also been proven to reduce alcohol cravings and urges to continue drinking once someone has started drinking
Your body must be opioid-free for a minimum of 7 to 14 days before starting VIVITROL to avoid sudden opioid withdrawal.
Note:
About 50% of patients leaving our inpatient programs are given a Vivitrol shot before transitioning
into outpatient treatment.
To be effective, VIVITROL should be used as part of a drug or alcohol recovery program that includes
counseling. Check out our detox and rehab programs:
Using Opioids or Drinking Alcohol while on Vivitrol
Vivitrol blocks the opioid receptors in the brain that allow us to feel the pleasurable effects of opioids. It has also been proven to reduce alcohol cravings and urges to continue drinking once someone has started drinking
What happens if someone uses opioids or drinks alcohol after starting VIVITROL treatment?
If they use prescription opioids, illicit street drugs like heroin or alcohol, they will not
feel the normal euphoric effects*.
*Important Note:
After receiving a dose of VIVITROL, its blocking effect will slowly decrease until the next dose is administered.
Although drinking alcohol while on Vivitrol would not give the same euphoric effects, the physical effects of drinking (a lack of coordination, nausea, slurred speech, headaches, etc) would still be felt.
VIVITROL is not right for everyone. There are significant risks from VIVITROL treatment, including risk of opioid overdose, severe reaction at the injection site and sudden opioid withdrawal. According to Vivitrol’s website
Overdose can occur if the user:
- Tries to overcome Vivitrol’s blocking effect by taking larger quantities of the opioid drugs
- Tries to overcome Vivitrol’s blocking effect by taking larger quantities of the opioid drugs
Side effects
People taking the Vivitrol shot could experience some side effects including
- Injection site tenderness
- Fatigue
- A decreased appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps and/or joint pain
- Headaches
Most of the side effects experienced from Vivitrol are not long-term. They’re usually the result of the body adjusting to the medication. If side effects are experienced, a qualified clinician can adjust the dosage or in some cases, switch the medication.
How much does the
Vivitrol shot cost?
If you pay for the Vivitrol injection out of pocket it can be quite expensive. Each shot can cost around $1,500
However, most patients are able to receive this injection AT NO COST!
We work with you to get the injection covered by your insurance provider
Even without insurance, there are patient assistance programs available to cover costs
How long should
you take Vivitrol for?
It’s recommended for most people to take Vivitrol for 12 months.
Once the year is over, they should be able to remain free of alcohol or opiates on their own. However,
continued counseling and group therapy is recommended.
Start Your Recovery
Taking the first step is half the battle. Choose how you want to get in contact with us to start the recovery process. You can reach us by phone, message or chat.
