Vivitrol

What is Vivitrol?

Vivitrol® contains naltrexone, a medication that stops opioid medications from creating a state of euphoria, or "high." Administered as an injection, Vivitrol helps prevent relapse in patients who are recovering from opioid addiction. 

Vivitrol can block the effects of the illegal drug heroin, as well as a variety of prescription medications that can cause addiction, including:

• Morphine 
• Codeine
• Fentanyl
• Oxycodone (OxyContin®, Percocet®)
• Oxymorphone (Opana®)
• Hydrocodone (Vicodin®) 

Vivitrol can also benefit patients in treatment for alcohol addiction because it reduces the urge to drink. However, unlike its effect on opioids, Vivitrol doesn't prevent you from becoming drunk.

How does Vivitrol work?

When you take opioids, they act on specific receptors in your brain, blocking pain signals and making you feel high. They also cause severe withdrawal symptoms when you stop using them.

Naltrexone, the active ingredient in Vivitrol, blocks opioid receptors, so you can't get high when using opioids. It also prevents the pain-relieving effects of opioid medications. It's not yet clear exactly how naltrexone works to decrease the urge to consume alcohol, but substantial clinical research has demonstrated its effectiveness in the treatment of alcoholism.

What is involved in Vivitrol treatment?

The experts at Northshore Family Practice prescribe Vivitrol as part of a long-term recovery plan for patients who have completed detox from drugs or alcohol. Typically, patients receive an injection of Vivitrol once a month for several months.

You might experience some discomfort, bruising, swelling, or redness around the injection site. This should subside within 1-2 weeks. 

Vivitrol will decrease your urge to use substances, but isn't a cure for addiction. Your full recovery depends on your commitment to all aspects of your treatment plan.

Is Vivitrol right for me?

When you see one of the caring providers at Northshore Family Practice for a substance use disorder, they begin by performing a comprehensive evaluation. This helps your provider to determine which treatment methods are best for your individual needs. 

If your physician determines that Vivitrol is right for you, they incorporate its use into a customized treatment protocol. This protocol also includes ongoing recovery support, integrative, holistic medical care, and recommendations for counseling and other mental health services.

To learn more about how Vivitrol can help to end your struggles with addiction, schedule a confidential consultation at Northshore Family Practice. Call today or book online.