What Is Vivitrol?
Answer:
Vivitrol is a once-monthly injection used to treat opioid and alcohol addiction. It contains extended-release naltrexone, a non-addictive medication that blocks opioid receptors in the brain and reduces cravings. A healthcare professional must administer Vivitrol, which is typically used in combination with counseling and behavioral therapy.
How Does Vivitrol Work?
Vivitrol is part of a class of medications called opioid receptor antagonists. This means it binds to the same brain receptors that opioids and alcohol affect, but instead of activating them, it blocks them.
When taken as prescribed, Vivitrol:
- Prevents opioids from producing a high
- Reduces the pleasurable effects of alcohol
- Decreases cravings
- Helps maintain abstinence after detox
Because it’s long-acting, one injection provides steady medication coverage for about 28 days.
Vivitrol for Alcohol Addiction
Vivitrol was first approved by the FDA in 2006 for treating alcohol dependence. Unlike medications that make you sick if you drink, Vivitrol works by dampening the brain’s reward response to alcohol. Over time, this can help reduce cravings and the urge to drink.
In clinical studies, patients who received Vivitrol plus counseling experienced:
- 25% fewer heavy drinking days
- Longer periods of abstinence
- Lower relapse rates
Because it doesn’t cause sickness when drinking, it’s often better tolerated, and more focused on reducing desire, not just discouraging use.
Vivitrol for Opioid Addiction
Vivitrol was approved in 2010 for treating opioid dependence. It’s the first extended-release, non-narcotic, non-addictive medication for opioid use disorder.
However, unlike medications like Suboxone or Methadone, Vivitrol cannot be started until all opioids are cleared from the body. Patients must complete a full detox, have no withdrawal symptoms, and be fully opioid-free before receiving the first dose.
When used correctly and combined with counseling, Vivitrol helps patients:
- Stay engaged in treatment
- Avoid relapse
- Remain opioid-free for longer periods
In an extensive study, 90% of people who used Vivitrol with counseling had opioid-free weeks, compared to only 35% with placebo. They were also 17 times less likely to relapse.
Who Should Not Take Vivitrol?
You should not take Vivitrol if you:
- Are currently using opioids or have not completed detox
- Are in opioid withdrawal
- Are allergic to naltrexone or its ingredients
Let your provider know if you:
- Have liver or kidney problems
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have a bleeding disorder or hemophilia
- Use street drugs or other substances
Your SaVida Health provider will conduct a comprehensive assessment to ensure Vivitrol is a safe and suitable option for you.
Vivitrol Side Effects
Most patients tolerate Vivitrol well, but some side effects may occur, including:
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Headache or dizziness
- Fatigue or sleep issues
- Anxiety
- Injection site pain or swelling
Rare but serious risks include:
- Liver damage (especially in people with liver disease)
- Eosinophilic pneumonia
- Severe injection site reactions
Always talk to your provider if you experience any symptoms that concern you.
Is Vivitrol Right for You?
Vivitrol can be an effective treatment option for individuals who:
- Have completed opioid detox and want to avoid relapse
- Are working to stay sober from alcohol
- Need a long-acting, once-monthly medication
- Prefer a non-addictive treatment without daily dosing
It works best when paired with counseling, peer support, and recovery planning, all of which SaVida Health offers at our outpatient locations.
Learn More About MAT Options at SaVida Health
At SaVida Health, we offer Vivitrol as part of a full treatment program that includes behavioral counseling, case management, and personalized support. Whether you’re transitioning from detox or looking for a non-addictive medication option, we’re here to help you find the right plan.
Contact us today to speak with a provider and learn if Vivitrol is the right next step in your recovery journey.