Vivitrol is a once-monthly injection that blocks opioid receptors and reduces cravings -- helping you stay focused on recovery from opioid or alcohol dependence.
Vivitrol (naltrexone extended-release) is a once-monthly injection that blocks opioid receptors in the brain. By blocking these receptors, Vivitrol eliminates the "high" from opioids and significantly reduces cravings for both opioids and alcohol.
Unlike medications such as Suboxone or Sublocade, Vivitrol is not an opioid. It is an opioid antagonist -- meaning it blocks opioids rather than activating the same receptors. There is no risk of physical dependence on Vivitrol itself, and it is not a controlled substance.
Vivitrol is FDA-approved for two conditions: the prevention of relapse to opioid dependence after detoxification, and the treatment of alcohol dependence in patients who are able to abstain from drinking in an outpatient setting.
How it works: A single intramuscular injection is administered once per month at our clinic. The medication releases steadily over 30 days, providing continuous protection without daily pills or decisions.
A different approach to medication-assisted recovery
Vivitrol is not a narcotic and not a controlled substance. There are no dependency concerns and no risk of diversion. It is a clean break from opioid-based treatment.
Vivitrol is FDA-approved to treat both opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. If you struggle with both, one medication can address both conditions simultaneously.
One injection per month. No daily pills to remember, no strips to take each morning. You visit us once, receive your injection, and you are covered for 30 days.
Vivitrol blocks the reward response from opioids. Even if a relapse occurs, the euphoric effect is eliminated -- removing the reinforcement that drives continued use.
Vivitrol is effective, but it is not right for everyone. Here is what you need to know.
You must be opioid-free for 7 to 14 days before your first Vivitrol injection. If opioids are still in your system, Vivitrol can trigger sudden and severe withdrawal. Our team will verify your readiness before administering the first dose.
While on Vivitrol, opioid pain medications will not work. If you need surgery or emergency pain management, your medical team must be informed that you are on Vivitrol so alternative pain relief can be used.
Naltrexone is processed by the liver. If you have hepatitis, cirrhosis, or other liver conditions, Vivitrol may not be safe for you. We will review your medical history and run appropriate labs before starting treatment.
Vivitrol is most effective as part of a comprehensive recovery program that includes counseling. The injection blocks cravings and removes the reward from substance use -- but that creates space, not a solution. What you do with that space is what determines long-term success.
Rebuilding relationships, developing coping strategies, addressing trauma, and learning to navigate life without substances -- these are the things that keep you in recovery after the injection wears off. That work happens in counseling.
At Healtop, your counseling and medication management happen in the same place, with the same team. Our integrated behavioral health services mean you do not have to coordinate between multiple providers or repeat your story at every visit. One clinic. One team. Complete support.
Vivitrol may be a good fit if any of the following apply
Your privacy is protected. All substance use treatment records receive the highest level of federal privacy protection under HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2. Your treatment information will never be shared without your written consent.
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