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Vivitrol Treatment For Alcohol Use Disorder

The journey toward sobriety is multifaceted, and the pursuit of recovery is always inherently personal. The hurdles you face on this path are often as diverse as the factors contributing to your addiction.

As you explore the path to recovery, you will no doubt encounter challenges. Each one demands a personalized and comprehensive approach to resolution. Vivitrol treatment for alcohol use disorder aims to reduce these challenges and make your recovery more sustainable.

If you’re seeking innovative solutions in your quest for lasting sobriety, then Vivitrol treatment for alcohol abuse offers an invaluable tool. Its ability to reduce cravings and add to a comprehensive, holistic recovery plan will aid in your healing and empower your journey toward sustained well-being.

Key Points:

  • Vivitrol treatment can be a powerful addition to your holistic recovery plan
  • Vivitrol utilizes naltrexone, a medication that helps to decrease cravings and blocks the euphoric highs of opioids
  • It has also been approved as a treatment for alcohol abuse
  • Vivitrol provides an extended-release of naltrexone, requiring only one injection per month

What Is Vivitrol Treatment For Alcohol Use Disorder?

Vivitrol is a brand name for the extended-release form of naltrexone,[1] a medication used in the treatment of addiction (particularly for opioid and alcohol dependence). Vivitrol is usually administered as a monthly injection, providing a sustained release over time.

Vivitrol is often used to help you maintain abstinence after you have stopped using substances. It blocks the euphoric effects of opioids, reducing cravings and the likelihood of relapse. Vivitrol for alcohol dependence helps to reduce your desire to drink.

Being prescribed Vivitrol is typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan that also includes counseling, therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes. It can also be particularly useful for those who may struggle with adherence to daily medications, as the monthly injection ensures a consistent level of medication in the system.

How Does Vivitrol Work?

Vivitrol operates by leveraging the properties of its active ingredient, naltrexone, an opioid receptor antagonist. This medication binds to opioid receptors in the brain, effectively obstructing the binding of opioids such as heroin or prescription painkillers.[2] By doing so, Vivitrol prevents the typical effects of opioids and plays a crucial role in diminishing cravings for these substances.

This mechanism is particularly advantageous for individuals in recovery from opioid addiction, as managing cravings can be a significant hurdle in early recovery. Additionally, Vivitrol is approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence,[3] working to reduce the rewarding effects of alcohol and supporting individuals in moderating or discontinuing their alcohol consumption.

Vivitrol stands out due to its extended-release formulation, administered as a monthly injection, ensuring a consistent and prolonged release of the medication. While Vivitrol serves as a valuable component in addiction treatment, it has the most impact when integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling, therapy, support groups, and other tailored interventions.

How Can Vivitrol Help My Recovery?

Vivitrol can be a valuable aid in your recovery journey by providing several benefits:[4]

Reducing cravings and protecting against relapse:

Vivitrol (and its active ingredient, naltrexone) helps reduce cravings for opioids or alcohol. By blocking the effects of these substances, Vivitrol contributes to a lower desire to use, making it easier for you to resist relapse in the future.

Extended release:

The extended-release formulation of Vivitrol ensures a steady and continuous release of medication throughout the month. This eliminates the need for maintaining a complex medication schedule, which can be challenging for some. Consistent medication levels contribute to a more stable and predictable therapeutic effect.

Monthly doses:

The monthly injection schedule simplifies the medication regimen, making it a convenient option for those who may struggle with adherence to daily medications. This can be particularly beneficial in maintaining treatment continuity.

Better overall functioning:

Vivitrol is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan. Such a holistic strategy addresses the multifaceted nature of addiction and enhances the chances of your long-term success.

What Makes Ikon Recovery Different?

Questions About Treatment?

Reach out to us with any questions you may have about starting your treatment journey. Our caring team will guide you through all the various treatment options available.

The Statistics Around Vivitrol Treatment

Both Vivitrol and Naltrexone have been heavily studied in recent years as addiction medicine, with promising results:

  • In a 24-week study of patients with opioid use disorder,[5] 36% of participants who received Vivitrol and counseling were opioid-free at weekly check-ins, whereas only 23% of patients who received a placebo and counseling alone.
  • In a double-blind, randomized trial of patients with alcohol use disorder, Vivitrol was shown to decrease heavy drinking days (combined with therapy groups) as compared to participants who only participated in counseling groups, with a 25% reduction in heavy drinking days overall.[6]
  • Several studies have demonstrated naltrexone’s clinical utility for treating both opioid and alcohol use disorder.

Vivitrol Addiction Treatment at Ikon

Ikon takes pride in offering a comprehensive range of treatment options, including Vivitrol, as part of our commitment to evidence-based care and holistic, whole-person treatment. Our dedication to addressing the complexities of addiction extends to providing alternative treatments that align with individual needs.

We recognize the importance of tailoring our approach to each person’s unique circumstances on their journey to recovery. Our goal is to empower individuals with a diverse toolkit for sustained healing and well-being.

Treating Addiction

Partial Hospitalization Program
Intensive Outpatient
Outpatient
Dual Diagnosis
Trauma-Informed Care
Partial Hospitalization Program
Intensive Outpatient
Outpatient
Dual Diagnosis
Trauma-Informed Care

Frequently Asked Questions About Vivitrol Addiction Treatment

Is Vivitrol addictive?

No, Vivitrol is not addictive. It does not produce the euphoric effects associated with opioids, and it does not lead to physical dependence.

How long does someone typically stay on Vivitrol treatment?

The duration of Vivitrol treatment varies based on your individual needs. Some may use it for several months, while others may continue for a more extended period.

Can Vivitrol be used as a standalone treatment?

Vivitrol is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan. It is often used in conjunction with counseling, therapy, support groups, and other treatment considerations.

What are the potential side effects of Vivitrol?

Side effects can include injection site reactions, nausea, and headache, among others.[9] Individuals should discuss potential side effects with their healthcare provider.

How is Vivitrol administered?

Vivitrol is administered as a monthly injection by a healthcare professional. The extended-release formulation ensures a steady release of medication over the course of a month. There are also other forms of naltrexone-based medications as well. Talk with your healthcare team about which formulation is right for you.

Sources

[1] SAMHSA. (2023). Naltrexone. Www.samhsa.gov. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders/medications-counseling-related-conditions/naltrexone on December 1, 2023

[2] VIVITROL.com | Opioid Dependence. (n.d.). Www.vivitrol.com. Retrieved from https://www.vivitrol.com/opioid-dependence on December 1, 2023

[3] VIVITROL® (naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension). (n.d.). ALK-VIV. Retrieved from https://www.vivitrol.com/alcohol-dependence on December 1, 2023

[4] Jarvis, B. P., Holtyn, A. F., Subramaniam, S., Tompkins, D. A., Oga, E. A., Bigelow, G. E., & Silverman, K. (2018). Extended-release injectable naltrexone for opioid use disorder: a systematic review. Addiction, 113(7), 1188–1209. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1111/add.14180 on December 1, 2023

[5] For Opioid Dependence | Why VIVITROL® (naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension). (n.d.). Www.vivitrol.com. Retrieved from https://www.vivitrol.com/opioid-dependence/why-vivitrol on December 1, 2023

[6] For Healthcare Professionals | Alcohol Dependence Pivotal Study for VIVITROL® (naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension). (n.d.). Www.vivitrolhcp.com. Retrieved from https://www.vivitrolhcp.com/alcohol-dependence-pivotal-study on December 1, 2023

[7] Singh, D., & Saadabadi, A. (2020). Naltrexone. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534811/ on December 1, 2023

[8] Leavitt, S. (n.d.). Evidence for the Efficacy of Naltrexone in the Treatment of Alcohol Dependence (Alcoholism). Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/programs_campaigns/medication_assisted/efficacy-naltrexone-treatment-alcohol-dependence.pdf on December 1, 2023

[9] For Alcohol Dependence | Questions and Answers About VIVITROL® (naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension). (n.d.). Www.vivitrol.com. Retrieved from https://www.vivitrol.com/alcohol-dependence/questions-and-answers on December 1, 2023