Vivitrol is a viable treatment for those struggling with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD). This FDA-approved medication can make a huge difference when struggling with cravings and withdrawal symptoms in the early days of recovery and preventing relapses. At Peachtree Detox near Alpharetta, Georgia, we offer Vivitrol shots as part of our comprehensive and personalized AUD and OUD detox and treatment plans.
Peachtree Detox is a premier provider of addiction treatment services and detox programs in Atlanta, Georgia. If you or someone you love is in need of professional care, reach out to us now.
Vivitrol is an FDA-approved medication that was approved in 2006 to help treat AUD. In 2010, the FDA approved the medication to help treat OUD. Vivitrol is the brand name for the injectable form of naltrexone that has to be prescribed by a doctor and administered in their office or at an addiction treatment facility.
Vivitrol can be a vital part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program.
Vivitrol shots work by offsetting the effects of alcohol use and opioid use. When these substances are used over a long period, the body builds a tolerance to them, meaning larger amounts are needed to achieve the pleasurable and euphoric effects. When someone stops drinking or using opioids, their body will go into a state of withdrawal.
While withdrawal symptoms can be managed with medically supervised detox, people can still struggle with cravings long after. To address this, Vivitrol can be prescribed. The medication binds to the opioid receptors and other receptors that cause people to experience euphoria, relaxation, calmness, and pleasure when using opioids or drinking alcohol.
Once Vivitrol is bound to these receptors, it blocks the effects of opioids and alcohol should a person relapse. Since there is no “reward” for using opioids or drinking, the brain no longer associates substance use with pleasure. As a result, people are less likely to relapse.
Vivitrol can be highly effective when prescribed for people recovering from AUD and OUD. It is often one part of a comprehensive treatment program that also includes evidence-based and holistic therapeutic modalities, such as:
As with other medications, some people may experience certain side effects when starting Vivitrol shots. Most side effects are temporary and subside once the body adjusts to the medication. However, it is important to report any side effects experienced to the prescribing physician as soon as possible. Some of the more common side effects that may occur are:
Vivitrol for AUD helps people overcome alcohol addiction because it blocks the effects of drinking. The purpose of the drug is to help prevent relapse and the desire to drink. Since the pleasurable effects are not experienced, there is no “reward” for drinking.
Vivitrol for OUD helps people struggling with cravings and withdrawal symptoms from opioids who are in the early stages of recovery. The medication also blocks the euphoric effects previously experienced. As a result, if someone relapses, they will not feel high or experience the desired effects. Therefore, Vivitrol serves as a deterrent to wanting to use opioids.
Vivitrol is a monthly injection that is administered every 28 to 30 days. Before injections can begin, the person must ensure all alcohol and opioids have been flushed from the body. Usually, this takes between one to two weeks. The monthly injections are given at the treatment facility or by your primary healthcare provider as part of aftercare after completing detox and addiction treatment.
If you take opioids while on Vivitrol, you will not get high or experience any of the euphoric effects because Vivitrol blocks these from occurring. However, one danger is some people will take higher doses of opioids, thinking they will offset the effects of Vivitrol. Yet, this is dangerous because it can cause an accidental overdose.
If you drink while on Vivitrol, you will not experience the pleasurable effects, such as calmness and relaxation. The drug blocks these effects from occurring. However, you can still experience other effects of alcohol, such as slowed cognitive responses, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, and hangovers.
The cost of Vivitrol shots is often fully covered through your health insurance. 99% of all people with health insurance coverage have no out-of-pocket costs for the medication. For people with co-pays or no insurance, Vivitrol offers a Co-pay Savings Program. 91% of people approved for this program had no out-of-pocket costs for Vivitrol.
Vivitrol can be highly effective in reducing relapse and helping people maintain their sobriety from alcohol and opioids. In cases where people do relapse, they are less likely to drink heavily or want to continue using opioids. People who continue to get Vivitrol shots after detox and addiction treatment also find it easier to maintain their new substance-free life.
When you are ready to get help for AUD or OUD and overcome addiction, help is available at Peachtree Detox. We offer comprehensive alcohol and opioid detox programs tailored to your unique needs. Our programs can also include using Vivitrol when it could be beneficial for you.
Contact us today to start your recovery journey in a safe, supportive, and caring environment.
Did you know most major health insurance plans with out-of-network benefits can help cover most of the costs associated with our program? Click below to find out your coverage and treatment options for our detox centers in Atlanta, Georgia.
