By Michael Burke
April 24, 2025
Overcoming addiction necessitates a thorough strategy that considers the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of those impacted.
For numerous individuals, treatment includes a mix of counseling, behavioral therapy, and medications, which together form a method called medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
One FDA-approved treatment that can significantly aid in sustaining newfound sobriety is Vivitrol. Understanding how this medication works can help you decide if it may benefit your recovery journey.
What is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is a medication approved by the FDA. It helps prevent relapse for people recovering from opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD).
The main ingredient is naltrexone. It blocks the pleasurable effects of using opioids or drinking alcohol. It also helps reduce cravings for both.
How Does Vivitrol Work?
Vivitrol functions by obstructing the effects of alcohol and opioids in the brain. It achieves this by attaching to the receptors that create the pleasurable sensations associated with drinking or using opioids. If a person drinks alcohol or uses opioids, they will not feel the high effects.
Without the reward from drinking or using opioids, individuals lose interest in these substances. Cravings gradually improve as the brain’s neurotransmitter levels return to normal.
How is Vivitrol Administered?
Vivitrol is given as a component of a complete treatment strategy for AUD or OUD. Before starting Vivitrol, individuals must undergo detoxification from alcohol or opioids to eliminate any remaining substances. During this detox phase, other FDA-approved medications may be utilized to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
After an individual has successfully finished detoxification, they can start Vivitrol therapy. Patients receive a monthly Vivitrol shot. It takes effect within a few hours after the injection.
Throughout the month, its gradual release will decrease. If the next injection is not given on time, the person may feel withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be similar to those experienced during opioid withdrawal.
When someone is ready to stop using Vivitrol, a medical professional should oversee the process. They should be gradually reduced from the medication to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Are Vivitrol Injections Effective?
Vivitrol can serve as a beneficial service in the treatment of alcohol or opioid addiction. Many studies show that people treated with Vivitrol for OUD had fewer relapses. They also had less of a craving for opioids and were better able to stay substance-free.
In cases of AUD, research shows that people who relapsed drank less alcohol. About 41% of them were able to stop drinking altogether.
Side Effects of Vivitrol
When beginning Vivitrol, patients might encounter different side effects, including:
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Muscle and joint pain
- Lethargy
These side effects are generally mild to moderate and short-lived. As the body becomes accustomed to the medication, these effects usually lessen. Nonetheless, it is crucial to report any side effects, regardless of their severity.
Along with these side effects, some people may, in rare instances, encounter more severe reactions, such as:
- Intense pain
- Liver damage
- Hepatitis
- Severe reaction at the injection site
- Swelling and blisters
Vivitrol as part of the Comprehensive Treatment Plan
Vivitrol can support long-term recovery by reducing cravings and deterring alcohol and drug use. However, it is essential for individuals using Vivitrol to engage in a comprehensive treatment program. Treatment includes:
- Therapy and counseling. Vivitrol treatment programs incorporate counseling and behavioral therapy. Individual or group sessions with trained therapists or counselors focus on the root causes of addiction. They help build coping strategies and change behaviors to support recovery. These behavioral therapies are intended to transform negative thought patterns and actions linked to substance use.
- Treatment for co-occurring disorders. Numerous people struggling with addiction often experience additional mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, or trauma-related disorders. It is essential to treat these co-existing conditions together with addiction for lasting recovery. Integrated dual-diagnosis treatment addresses both problems at the same time. This approach improves outcomes and lowers the chance of relapse.
- Case management. Case managers help clients navigate the healthcare system, access resources, and stay involved in their treatment. They may manage a person’s treatment plan, addressing medical, social, and psychological requirements.
- Holistic treatment. Holistic methods take into account the entire individual (mind, body, and spirit) during treatment. This can include helpful therapies such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture, nutritional advice, exercise plans, and stress relief methods. These can improve overall health and support the recovery process.
Find Vivitrol Treatment in Florida
If you are having trouble with alcohol or opioid use, you might keep relapsing. Vivitrol treatment at Solutions Healthcare could help you find lasting sobriety. We offer tailored treatment plans that incorporate both evidence-based and holistic therapy approaches. For more information about Vivitrol injections or to start detox treatment, contact us today.
info@shc.health 
