At New Paradigm Recovery, we provide comprehensive and effective treatments to support our clients on their journey to recovery. One of the options we offer as part of our integrated psychiatric services is Vivitrol. Vivitrol shots are a medication that can be an essential component of a broader addiction treatment plan.
Importantly, Vivitrol differs from other medications used to treat addiction and alcoholism because it disincentivizes drug use by blocking the “high.” While other drugs used to treat substance use disorder can be addictive in their own right, Vivitrol shots work differently. Patients who may not have had success with other medically-assisted treatment programs in the past may achieve better results while using this different class of medication.
What is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is a brand name for the injectable form of naltrexone, an FDA-approved medication used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence. Unlike other forms of naltrexone, which are taken orally, Vivitrol is administered as a monthly injection. This extended-release format helps ensure consistent medication levels in the body, reducing the risk of relapse.
How Does Vivitrol Work?
Vivitrol works by blocking the effects of opioids and alcohol in the brain. It binds to opioid receptors without activating them, effectively preventing the euphoric and sedative effects that drive addiction. For individuals struggling with alcohol dependence, Vivitrol reduces the urge to drink and helps maintain abstinence.
Vivitrol is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and support services. It is not a stand-alone cure for addiction but rather a powerful tool that can aid in the recovery process.
Find more information about how Vivitrol works in this article by NIH.
Who Can Benefit from Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is suitable for individuals who have already detoxed from opioids or alcohol and are committed to maintaining their sobriety. Before starting Vivitrol, patients must be free of opioids for at least 7-10 days to avoid sudden withdrawal symptoms.
Patients who are highly motivated to stay sober and are engaged in a broader treatment plan, including counseling and behavioral therapy, often see the best results with Vivitrol. Furtherore, those who have struggled with maintaining abstinence and are looking for additional support to prevent relapse may find it particularly helpful.
The Benefits of Vivitrol
- Long-Acting Protection: With just one injection per month, Vivitrol provides continuous protection against the effects of opioids and alcohol, reducing the daily burden of taking medication.
- Non-Addictive: Unlike some other medications used in addiction treatment, Vivitrol is non-addictive and does not cause dependence.
- Reduces Cravings: For alcohol-dependent individuals, Vivitrol helps reduce cravings, making it easier to maintain sobriety.
How Vivitrol Shots are Different than Other Medicines Used in Addiction Treatment
Vivitrol, methadone, and Suboxone are all used to treat opioid dependence, but they differ significantly. Vivitrol is a non-addictive, monthly injection that blocks opioid receptors, preventing any euphoric effects and reducing cravings without the need for daily dosing. Methadone, a full opioid agonist, reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings but can be addictive and requires daily supervised administration. Suboxone, a combination of a partial agonist (buprenorphine) and an antagonist (naloxone), reduces cravings with lower addiction risk than methadone and is often prescribed for home use.
Potential Side Effects
As with any medication, Vivitrol can have side effects. Common side effects include nausea, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Some patients may experience injection site reactions, such as pain, swelling, or irritation. It’s important to discuss these potential side effects with your healthcare provider to ensure that Vivitrol is the right choice for your treatment plan.
How to Get Started with Vivitrol at New Paradigm Recovery
If you believe that Vivitrol shots could be a valuable part of your recovery journey, the first step is to schedule a consultation with one of our medical professionals. At New Paradigm Recovery, we evaluate your individual needs, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if Vivitrol will work for you.
Our integrated approach ensures that you receive the full spectrum of care needed to achieve and maintain sobriety. We combine medication-assisted treatment with therapy, counseling, and support services to provide a holistic path to recovery.
To learn more about our psychiatric services and how they can support your recovery, contact New Paradigm Recovery today.