Vivitrol Medication Assisted Treatment
Breaking free from drug addiction is an intimidating challenge, impacting not just the person but also their loved ones. The journey to recovery begins with a courageous first step.
Our Vivitrol treatment program is designed to be a lifeline for those grappling with alcohol or opioid dependence.
With a compassionate and personalized approach, we empower individuals to conquer addiction and rediscover the path to a healthier, fulfilling life.
What is Vivitrol
Vivitrol is a medication-assisted treatment that offers valuable support to individuals struggling with opioid or alcohol dependence. This FDA-approved injectable medication, which contains naltrexone, is designed to block the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids and alcohol, ultimately reducing cravings and preventing relapse.
Unlike other treatment options, Vivitrol is a non-addictive, once-monthly injection, providing a convenient and practical choice for those dedicated to their recovery journey. Our facility is committed to offering comprehensive support and personalized treatment plans to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
- FDA-approved injectable
- Blocks euphoric effects
- Personalized treatment plans
Benefits of Vivitrol Treatment
Vivitrol offers several benefits that make it a valuable option in the fight against alcohol dependence:
Prevention of Relapse
- By blocking the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol, Vivitrol significantly reduces the likelihood of relapse, helping individuals maintain their sobriety.
Reduction in Cravings
- Vivitrol diminishes cravings, making it easier for patients to focus on their recovery without the constant urge to use substances.
Convenient Administration
- Vivitrol, administered once monthly, provides a convenient and discreet treatment option, eliminating the need for daily medication adherence.
Non-Addictive
- Unlike some other medications used in addiction treatment, Vivitrol is non-addictive, ensuring that patients do not develop a dependency on their treatment.
Supportive of Long-term Recovery
- Vivitrol is most effective with comprehensive therapy and support programs, promoting sustained recovery and overall well-being.
HOW VIVITROL WORKS
Vivitrol works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain, which helps to reduce the euphoric effects of alcohol use. This monthly injection is designed to break the cycle of addiction by lessening cravings and minimizing the pleasurable effects of substance use.
This long-lasting impact supports sobriety and reinforces the patient’s dedication to their recovery journey.
- Mechanism of Action: Blocks opioid receptors to reduce euphoric effects.
- Injection Frequency: Monthly, with effects lasting about 30 days.
- Eligibility: Starts with a thorough medical evaluation to determine patient eligibility.
- Support: Regular check-ins and comprehensive care to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Vivitrol Evidence of Effectiveness
A study conducted by several doctors investigated the effectiveness of two forms of naltrexone: a once-a-month injection of Vivitrol (extended-release naltrexone) and daily oral naltrexone tablets. Many patients struggled to stick with the daily regimen, leading researchers to explore whether the monthly injection could be more effective.
Study Design and Participants
The study involved 237 adults with alcohol use disorders, recruited from a public hospital in New York City. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either one or the other over a period of 24 weeks. The primary goal was to see if the participants could achieve a "Good Clinical Outcome," defined as either abstinence or moderate drinking (up to 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women, and fewer than 2 heavy drinking occasions per month) in the last 20 weeks of the study.
Findings
Early results suggested that Vivitrol was more successful in helping patients reduce their alcohol consumption than daily doses. The convenience of a monthly injection helped more patients stay on track with their treatment, leading to better overall outcomes.
In simple terms, the study suggested that a once-a-month shot might be better than daily pills for helping people with alcohol dependence drink less or quit drinking altogether.
Who Are the Best Candidates for Vivitrol?
It’s important to remember that Vivitrol is best suited for individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria.
To ensure the best outcomes, patients should be:
Diagnosed with alcohol use disorders. Also, be alcohol-free for at least 7-10 days before starting Vivitrol to avoid precipitating withdrawal symptoms.
Have attempted other forms of treatment and found them ineffective.
Are healthy enough to take the prescribed medications and can commit to regular check-ups.
A comprehensive medical assessment is carried out to evaluate suitability, taking into account factors such as the patient’s overall health, history of substance use, and any co-occurring mental health conditions.
The most suitable candidates are those dedicated to a comprehensive recovery program, including therapy and support groups, as these complement the medication’s effectiveness. Our team is committed to working closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan that meets their unique needs.
Potential Side Effects
While Vivitrol is effective in treating alcohol abuse, it may cause side effects in some patients.
Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- Allergic reactions
Patients should:
- Inform their healthcare provider of any adverse effects they experience
- Engage in regular monitoring
- Maintain open communication with their medical team
These steps help manage and mitigate side effects, ensuring the safety and well-being of each patient.
HOW IT WORKS
1
Verify Insurance
We'll check your insurance coverage
2
Complete a personalized assessment
Answer a few quetions and tell us your story
3
Start Treatment
Your healing journey and new life starts now
Seeking help for a loved one?
There’s hope for a better, drug and alcohol-free life. If you or a loved one is seeking help for an opioid, benzo, or alcohol addiction, CMAR can provide the support and resources needed to get you on the path to recovery.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
There is always hope for a better, drug and alcohol-free life. If you or someone you care about is struggling with opioid, benzo, or alcohol addiction, CMAR is here to offer the support and resources needed to start the journey to recovery. Our MAT program combines medication-assisted treatment with psychotherapy, case management services, and peer support for sustained recovery.
Please don’t wait to get some help. Contact us at (833) 448-0127 or online to discover more about MAT and our addiction treatment services in Denver and the surrounding areas. With the proper support, you can take control of your life.
Why Choose Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery
At CMAR, we understand that long-lasting recovery demands much more than a prescription. Recovery is a challenging personal journey of incremental change, and medication is only one element of treatment.
We know that many people suffering from substance use disorder may also have co-occurring other mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. We look at the family, social supports, and prior history of trauma and develop individual treatment plans accordingly. We believe treating mental health alongside addiction is an indispensable part of our opioid addiction treatment programs and alcohol addiction treatment programs.
We help our patients identify the causes of anger, fear, sadness, and loneliness and provide tools to cope effectively so they don’t cause a relapse.
Talk to Someone
Our addiction specialists are here to help 24/7. Give us a call and we can help find the right treatment program for you or your loved one – even if it’s not ours! We are here to help.