For individuals striving to overcome addiction to alcohol or opioids, the medical team at Woodland Recovery Center can assess whether incorporating medications into their treatment plans is appropriate.
Our Vivitrol treatment program in Mississippi can be a helpful part of our comprehensive approach to treatment. This medication can curb cravings and relieve withdrawal symptoms, which can help patients focus on their recovery.
Learn more about Vivitrol and whether it can help you as you work towards healing. Contact the Woodland Recovery Center team today at 662.222.2989 to get started in a medication-assisted treatment program.
What Is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is an injectable form of naltrexone. Naltrexone was developed in the 1970s in pill form to treat addiction, but it did not receive much attention until now. Scientists recently made the drug into an injectable form and found that it is very effective in treating opioid or alcohol addictions.
This new form of the drug is administered through monitored injections. This is the first drug of its kind to be injected once monthly. It is also unique because taking Vivitrol is non-habit forming, and stopping treatment does not lead to withdrawal symptoms.
If you’re struggling with opioid or alcohol addiction, it’s important to stop using them before beginning Vivitrol treatment.
The Role of Vivitrol in Opioid and Alcohol Addiction Recovery
Vivitrol may be especially effective for those who struggle with taking a pill every day to help keep them on track because this drug is not administered in pill form.
While Vivitrol treatment programs will help individuals struggling to stay sober, it is not to be used as the only method of treatment.
Before a patient can use Vivitrol, they must enter a treatment center first and receive a detoxification treatment. Individuals struggling with an opioid or alcohol addiction must be alcohol or opioid-free for at least one to two weeks before taking Vivitrol.
This includes not using the following:
- Street drugs
- Prescription medications
- Opioid dependence treatments
- Buprenorphine
- Methadone
- Medications for cough, cold, or diarrhea
If you use opioids during the days before Vivitrol, it can lead to disastrous withdrawal symptoms. These sudden withdrawal symptoms are severe and could lead to hospitalization. Clearing your body of opioids and alcohol before treatment is for your safety.
After the patient is free of alcohol and opioids, they can then be administered a Vivitrol treatment by a doctor or qualified medical professional. Sometimes, the doctor may decide that the patient may not need a complete detox program. If this is determined, the doctor can administer Vivitrol in a medical facility that can treat sudden withdrawal symptoms if they do occur.
Remember that each case is unique, and talk with your doctor to discuss your plan. Many patients will enter a detox program at Woodland Recovery Center before starting Vivitrol treatment.
Our Approach to Vivitrol Treatment Programs
When the patient has received detoxification treatment and Vivitrol, they must also receive some form of counseling. Vivitrol is not meant to be taken without counseling. Alcohol or opioid addiction is a chronic and relapsing mental health condition. Vivitrol helps by reducing the physical cravings, blocking the pleasurable feelings associated with opioids and alcohol, and supporting you on your journey to recovery.
However, receiving counseling will focus on the psychological aspects of the addiction. Going through counseling is very important to your success. Vivitrol (naltrexone) will assist you one month at a time. If a patient suddenly stops drug use and has not developed coping techniques through a counselor, they run the risk of relapse. Talking with a counselor about underlying issues, learning coping mechanisms, and taking Vivitrol will lead to the highest success rates.
Are You a Candidate for Vivitrol Treatment for Your Recovery?
Determining whether you are a candidate for Vivitrol treatment involves understanding your unique needs and medical background. Our team at Woodland Recovery Center assesses various factors to ensure the most effective and safe approach for each individual.
Here are some criteria that might make you a suitable candidate for Vivitrol:
- You have been opioid or alcohol-free for at least one to two weeks.
- You have completed a detoxification program.
- You do not have any severe liver conditions.
- You are committed to adhering to a comprehensive treatment plan, including counseling and follow-up appointments.
- You are not pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
- You are struggling with an opioid or alcohol dependency and are looking for a non-habit-forming medication to aid in recovery.
If you meet these criteria and are ready to begin your journey toward recovery, contact our Vivitrol treatment center to discuss your plan with our medical professionals. They will provide the support and guidance necessary to help you succeed.
Reach Out to Woodland Recovery Center Today
If you have tried other opioid or alcohol treatment options, it may be time to try Vivitrol. Talk to Woodland Recovery Center to see if Vivitrol is right for you. Remember that you will also need to participate in other standard treatments, such as counseling and taking Vivitrol. If you have questions about this topic or are seeking help with your opioid or alcohol addiction, we are here to help. Contact us online or call us at 662.222.2989 today to learn more.
