vivitrol treatment Archives - Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Vivitrol Treatment Covered by Aetna Insurance near Denver

Posted on April 26, 2022March 4, 2025 by cmarnew

A Vivitrol treatment program is very beneficial in helping men and women get through their withdrawal symptoms with a significant reduction in relapsing.

Vivitrol treatment is part of a medication-assisted treatment program that coincides with therapy through an inpatient or outpatient treatment program. Aetna and other insurance companies include Vivitrol treatment as part of their substance abuse insurance coverage.

At Colorado Medication-Assisted Recovery, our medication-assisted treatment includes Vivitrol treatment covered by Aetna and other insurance providers. Our facility is in-network for Aetna, and our seamless verification process will give you an accurate and easy-to-understand summary of your coverage.

Is Vivitrol Treatment Covered by Aetna?

Yes, Vivitrol treatment is covered by Aetna as part of their substance abuse and mental health treatment benefits. Aetna’s coverage includes:

Detox programs
Residential/inpatient treatment
Partial hospitalization programs
Intensive outpatient programs
Continuing care and alumni programs

At CMAR, we are in-network with Aetna, and our seamless verification process ensures you receive an accurate and easy-to-understand summary of your coverage. Many of our patients have zero out-of-pocket costs, making recovery accessible and affordable.

What Is Vivitrol Treatment?

Vivitrol is the brand name for naltrexone, an opiate antagonist that effectively treats addiction to opioids and alcohol. It affects the same cell receptors that release dopamine and other neurotransmitters that are responsible for euphoria and pain relief. Instead of flooding your body with dopamine, it blocks the release and stops the euphoric feeling and breaks your body’s reliance on your substance of choice.

Vivitrol is an injection that is given once a month as part of a medication-assisted treatment program. This program uses a mix of medications to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings for patients participating in an addiction treatment program. The medical staff will administer your medication and monitor you for any adverse reactions.

Medical staff will continue to update your medication to give you the maximum benefits with minimal side effects. Inform them if you have ever had liver or kidney disease or hemophilia, as Vivitrol may not be safe for you. You should not start Vivitrol treatment if:

You have used opioids within the last 7–14 days
You’ve used methadone or buprenorphine in the last 14 days
You have used medicine to treat a cough, cold, or diarrhea in the last 7–14 days

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our medical staff will determine the right medications to help with your addiction recovery. Our medication-assisted treatment aims not to replace one drug with another but to have you 100% drug-free by the end of your program.

How Vivitrol Compares to Other MAT Options

While there are several MAT options available, Vivitrol stands out for its unique benefits:

Vivitrol vs. Suboxone: Suboxone contains buprenorphine, which activates opioid receptors, while Vivitrol blocks them entirely. Vivitrol is ideal for individuals who want to avoid any opioid activation.
Vivitrol vs. Methadone: Methadone is a full opioid agonist and requires daily visits to a clinic, whereas Vivitrol is non-addictive and administered monthly.
Vivitrol for Alcohol Addiction: Unlike other MAT options, Vivitrol is also FDA-approved for alcohol use disorder, making it a versatile treatment choice.

FAQs About Vivitrol Treatment

1. How long does Vivitrol stay in your system?
Vivitrol’s effects last for about one month, which is why it’s administered as a monthly injection.

2. Can Vivitrol be used for alcohol and opioid addiction?
Yes, Vivitrol is FDA-approved to treat both alcohol use disorder and opioid dependence.

3. What happens if I miss a Vivitrol injection?
If you miss an injection, contact your healthcare provider immediately to reschedule. Delaying treatment may increase the risk of relapse.

4. Is Vivitrol safe for pregnant women or individuals with chronic health conditions?
Vivitrol may not be safe for everyone. Before starting treatment, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions or medications you’re taking.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Vivitrol treatment is a powerful tool for overcoming addiction and achieving long-term sobriety. At CMAR, we’re committed to providing safe, effective, and affordable Vivitrol treatment covered by Aetna and other insurance providers

Vivitrol Clinic Available near Thornton, Colorado

Posted on December 13, 2021March 5, 2025 by cmarnew

Drugs and alcohol can cause severe withdrawal symptoms and cravings that can be overpowering. You might feel that you need to continue to use these substances despite knowing the harm you are causing to yourself and others.

A Vivitrol clinic in Thornton can help you with medication-assisted treatment that includes Vivitrol and other FDA-approved drugs.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our medical staff can administer Vivitrol and other drugs to reduce your cravings and some of the painful withdrawal symptoms that addiction creates. As part of our outpatient and telehealth services, a Vivitrol treatment program may benefit your level of addiction.

Choose Colorado Medication-Assisted Recovery for Your Vivitrol Clinic in Thornton

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our treatment facility near Thornton, CO, can give you the help you need in recovering from alcohol or opioid addiction.

Professional medical staff will administer and monitor your medication-assisted treatment as necessary and is a part of all of our treatment programs:

What Is Vivitrol?

Vivitrol is one of the brand names for naltrexone, a non-opioid medication that blocks opioid receptors in the body. It is an extended-release intramuscular injection given once a month by a medical professional to help stop your cravings and the euphoric feeling you get from alcohol and opioids.

Vivitrol has proven to be very beneficial for alcohol use disorder and opioid addiction when combined with behavioral therapy.

Vivitrol works by binding with the opioid receptors in your body and blocks the euphoric feelings that opioids and alcohol can produce. It will also stop the cravings that push you to continue to abuse your substance of choice beyond healthy limits. Without the cravings, you will no longer feel the need to continue using.

Some patients may experience minor side effects from Vivitrol, which may include:

Headache
Nausea
Stomach pain
Dizziness
Anxiety

Patients with a history of liver disease or hepatitis should not take Vivitrol as it can cause liver damage. If you take Vivitrol with opioids still in your system, you may experience:

Hallucinations
Blurred vision
Confusion
Anxiety
Severe vomiting and diarrhea

Benefits of Using Vivitrol in a Medication-Assisted Treatment Program

Vivitrol is one of the newer medications that the FDA has approved for treating alcohol and opioid use disorders. It is not an opioid agonist, like methadone or buprenorphine, and has little risk of abuse.

If you drink while taking Vivitrol for alcohol use disorder, it will block the euphoric effects that alcohol can produce. Without the heightened experience, your body will stop craving the substance as it can no longer provide the euphoric feeling it is expecting.

For opioid addiction, Vivitrol binds with the opioid receptors and completely blocks any release of dopamine or other endorphins. It blocks other opioids from binding with the receptors, canceling any of the high effects opioids can produce.

Other benefits of taking Vivitrol will include:

The once-a-month shot is administered by a medical professional, reducing the chances of missing medication
Long-lasting effects that last for one month
Naltrexone is not an opioid, so there is zero risk of abuse
Little to no side effects
Non-addictive

3 Benefits of a Vivitrol Treatment Program

Posted on September 11, 2021March 4, 2025 by cmarnew

To help stop the frequent number of relapses in addiction treatment, Vivitrol and other FDA-approved drugs can help with addiction recovery by easing withdrawal symptoms and cravings so patients can focus on their recovery.

A Vivitrol treatment program is a monthly injection that stops the pleasurable effects of alcohol, heroin, and other drugs with zero chance of addiction or withdrawal once you stop taking Vivitrol.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we use medication-assisted therapy (MAT) to help reduce craving and withdrawal symptoms so you can concentrate on your recovery and reduce the chances of relapse down the road.

Three Benefits of a Vivitrol Treatment Program

Using Vivitrol with an outpatient treatment program that involves behavior and group therapy gives you a better chance at maintaining your sobriety throughout your life.

1. Vivitrol Is Long-Lasting

Vivitrol is one of the longer-lasting MAT drugs approved to treat opioid and alcohol addiction. A single dose can last for 30 days and is administered by a medical professional. As you progress through your Vivitrol treatment program, your therapists will continue to update your program to provide you with the best care possible, leading to abstinence.

2. Zero Risk of Addiction

Vivitrol is a non-narcotic with no chance of addiction or withdrawal symptoms. Patients may feel some side effects, which include:

Headache
Fatigue
Nausea
Depression and anxiety
Joint or muscle pain

Compared to the side effects of withdrawal, patients can concentrate on their recovery and get control of their lives back.

3. Lower Risk of Relapse

Studies have shown that Vivitrol is very effective in treating drug addiction with fewer chances of relapse when the patient is dedicated to their recovery and follows their addiction treatment program.

The goal of a Vivitrol treatment program is complete abstinence. While no treatment program can guarantee complete abstinence, you have a better chance at staying sober when combining Vivitrol with an outpatient program and a supportive and sober home environment to continue your therapy.

Who is a Good Candidate for Vivitrol?

Vivitrol is an excellent option for individuals struggling with opioid or alcohol addiction who are motivated to achieve sobriety. Ideal candidates include:

Those who have completed detox and are no longer physically dependent on opioids or alcohol.
Individuals seeking a non-addictive medication-assisted treatment (MAT) option.
Patients who prefer a once-monthly injection over daily medications.

However, Vivitrol is not suitable for everyone. You should not start Vivitrol if:

You have used opioids within the last 7–14 days.
You’ve used methadone or buprenorphine in the last 14 days.
You have a history of liver or kidney disease or hemophilia.

A medical evaluation at CMAR will determine if Vivitrol is the right choice for your recovery journey.

Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Like any medication, Vivitrol may cause side effects. While most are mild and temporary, it’s important to be aware of them:

Common Side Effects:

Headache
Fatigue
Nausea
Joint or muscle pain
Depression or anxiety

Tips for Managing Side Effects:

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help reduce headaches and fatigue.
Eat Small Meals: If you experience nausea, try eating smaller, more frequent meals.
Communicate with Your Medical Team: Inform your healthcare provider about any side effects so they can adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Most side effects subside as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if you experience severe or persistent symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take for Vivitrol to start working?
Vivitrol begins working immediately after the injection, blocking opioid receptors and reducing cravings.

2. Can Vivitrol be used for long-term treatment?
Yes, Vivitrol can be used for long-term treatment to support sustained recovery.

3. What happens if I relapse while on Vivitrol?
If you relapse, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can adjust your treatment plan and provide additional support.

4. Is Vivitrol safe for individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders?
Vivitrol is generally safe, but it’s important to discuss any mental health conditions with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Learn More About MAT for Your Addiction Treatment

Vivitrol treatment offers a powerful solution for overcoming addiction, with benefits like long-lasting effects, zero risk of addiction, and lower relapse rates.

At CMAR, we’re committed to providing personalized care that combines Vivitrol with therapy to address the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

If you or a loved one is ready to take the first step toward recovery, contact us today to learn more about our Vivitrol treatment program and start your journey to a healthier, sober life.

Does Vivitrol Cure Drug or Alcohol Addiction?

Posted on April 15, 2021March 5, 2025 by cmarnew

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) gives rehab centers the ability to provide clients with a treatment option that can help sustain recovery. While it’s mainly used to treat drug addiction, it can also benefit individuals battling an alcohol addiction.

Vivitrol treatment involves giving clients an extended-release form of naltrexone. Colorado Medication-Assisted Recovery believes in the benefits of MAT therapy using Vivitrol.

Can Vivitrol Cure an Alcohol or Drug Addiction?

Once you become addicted to drugs or alcohol and become sober, you must remain in recovery mode for the rest of your life. While Vivitrol helps clients get through the rehab process with fewer cravings and withdrawal symptoms, it doesn’t cure addiction issues.

Vivitrol treatment typically works as a complement to other therapies in a client’s treatment plan. Colorado Medication-Assisted Recovery looks to treat all aspects of a client’s addiction issues. You also get the opportunity to participate in sessions consisting of dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, both of which have benefited clients who come in to treat an addiction.

Many who come to us for help may have underlying mental health disorders. People often turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of self-medicating the symptoms. They may not realize that issues like depression, anxiety, and PTSD could exacerbate their addiction problems.

That’s why the staff at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery takes the time to understand our clients so that we understand the full scope of their issues. That allows us to come up with individualized treatment plans to address every aspect of your illness.

Vivitrol for Co-Occurring Disorders

Many individuals struggling with addiction also have co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Vivitrol can be an effective treatment option for these individuals, as it addresses the physical aspects of addiction while therapy tackles the psychological factors.

At CMAR, we take an integrated approach to treating co-occurring disorders. Our team of medical professionals and therapists works together to create personalized treatment plans that address both addiction and mental health. By treating the whole person, we help individuals achieve lasting recovery and improve their overall quality of life.

How Does Vivitrol Work?

Vivitrol is a brand-name version of the medication naltrexone. Clients in MAT programs can take the medication in injectable or tablet form. Your system must be free of opioids, alcohol, or other toxins before you can start MAT with Vivitrol. That will keep them from experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they begin taking the medication.

People end up being attracted to substances for different reasons. Opioids create euphoric feelings by stimulating the opioid receptors in your brain, while alcohol functions as a depressant to your central nervous system.

Vivitrol blocks the receptors that typically respond to these substances, so they can’t produce the highs and other expected sensations typically produced when you consume drugs or alcohol.

How Can Vivitrol Help With Drug and Alcohol Addiction?

The FDA first approved the use of Vivitrol for alcohol addiction treatment back in 2010. Individuals who take the drug as part of MAT typically experience fewer cravings, which can help them avoid relapsing. It does the same for individuals working to overcome opioid addiction. The net effect is that people tend to stay in rehab longer, allowing them to absorb the lessons taught in therapy and apply them to their regular lives.

Again, your body must be completely free of other substances if you want to experience the full benefits of Vivitrol. If you’re already taking buprenorphine, then the Vivitrol would interfere with the effects of that drug, which might make your withdrawal symptoms worse. Vivitrol stops opioid receptors from bonding with endorphins produced by opioids, making it extremely effective for treating opioid addiction.

How to Prepare for Vivitrol Treatment

Before starting Vivitrol, individuals must complete detox and be free of opioids for at least 7–14 days. This ensures that Vivitrol does not trigger withdrawal symptoms or interfere with other medications. Here’s how to prepare for Vivitrol treatment:

Complete Detox: Work with a medical professional to safely detox from opioids or alcohol.
Stay Opioid-Free: Avoid using opioids, methadone, or buprenorphine for at least 7–14 days before starting Vivitrol.
Consult a Healthcare Provider: Discuss your medical history and any medications you’re taking to ensure Vivitrol is safe for you.
Commit to Recovery: Vivitrol works best when combined with therapy and lifestyle changes, so be prepared to fully engage in your treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does Vivitrol stay in your system?
Vivitrol’s effects last for about one month, which is why it’s administered as a monthly injection.

2. Can Vivitrol be used during pregnancy?
Vivitrol may not be safe for pregnant women. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits.

3. What happens if I miss a Vivitrol injection?
If you miss an injection, contact your healthcare provider immediately to reschedule. Delaying treatment may increase the risk of relapse.

4. Is Vivitrol safe for individuals with chronic health conditions?
Vivitrol may not be safe for everyone. Before starting treatment, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions or medications you’re taking.

Get Help For Addiction at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication-Assisted Recovery (CMAR), we understand that overcoming addiction is a challenging journey, and there are no quick fixes or miracle cures.

However, we are committed to providing the tools, support, and resources you need to achieve lasting sobriety. Our goal is to help you build a healthier, more fulfilling life free from the grip of drugs and alcohol.

What Sets CMAR Apart?

Personalized Treatment Plans: We recognize that every individual’s journey with addiction is unique. Our team takes the time to understand your specific needs, challenges, and goals to create a tailored treatment plan that works for you.
Comprehensive Care: Our programs combine medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with evidence-based therapies to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
Safe and Supportive Environment: We prioritize your comfort and safety, providing a welcoming space where you can focus on healing and recovery.
Experienced Team: Our medical professionals and therapists are highly trained in addiction treatment and are dedicated to helping you succeed.

Take the First Step Today

If you or a loved one is ready to take the first step toward recovery, CMAR is here to help. Our compassionate team is available to answer your questions, verify your insurance coverage, and guide you through the process of starting treatment.