VIVITROL®
Learn how VIVITROL® can help you today!
VIVITROL® is the first non-narcotic, non-addictive, extended-release drug approved by the FDA to prevent opioid use following detox.
Holistic Home Detox offers VIVITROL as part of their Opiate and Alcohol Detox Programs.
The physical dependence on drug substances often leads to a relapse and perpetuates the addiction cycle. VIVITROL is an important aspect of the overall withdrawal treatment process because it targets the physical dependency aspect of addiction. It is one of the newer medications available for the treatment of both opiate and alcohol addiction.
WHAT IS VIVITROL®?
VIVITROL® is a long-acting, non-addictive injectable medication that blocks the effect of opiates on the brain. VIVITROL is used to prevent relapse to opiate dependence after opiate detox, and is also used to treat alcohol dependence.
Its active ingredient, naltrexone, acts on specific opioid receptors in the brain to block the ‘high’ and ‘pleasurable’ feelings that occur with opioid or alcohol use. VIVITROL is an important aspect of the withdrawal treatment process, because it targets the physical dependency aspect of addiction.
Some important things to know about VIVITROL:
‣ Opioid antagonist
‣ Used in conjunction with counseling
‣ Non-addictive
‣ Not a narcotic
‣ Effective in augmenting recovery from addiction to alcohol
‣ Requires opioid detox (before starting VIVITROL, you must be opioid-free for a minimum of 7-14 days to avoid sudden opioid withdrawal)
‣ Once-monthly injection
‣ Should be used in conjunction with other recovery programs, such as counseling
VIVITROL® BENEFITS.
‣ Long-acting: It is an extended-release, injectable form of naltrexone.
‣ Reduces cravings: Makes opiate drugs or alcohol much less desirable, therefore helping to avoid a relapse
‣ Easy to administer: Because Vivitrol is given as a monthly injection, it is considered to be one of the most convenient ways to take the drug.
‣ No risk of abuse: Since the shot is administered in a medical setting and is also a non-narcotic, there is no potential for misuse
‣ Little to no side effects: Possible rare side effects may occur and could include nausea, headache, loss of appetite, depression, anxiety, and fatigue
REFERENCES
Medication Guide: VIVITROL: www.fda.gov/files/drugs/published/Vivitrol-Medication-Guide.pdf