Vivitrol Shot

Contact us today to begin medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in Arkansas.

What is Vivitrol?

Vivitrol is an FDA-approved medication used to treat alcohol and opioid addiction.

It belongs to a class of medications called opioid antagonists. This means it blocks the effects of opioids on the brain. Vivitrol is the injectable form of Naltrexone, another medication commonly used during MAT.

Typically, the Vivitrol shot is administered as a once-monthly injection. This makes it convenient for individuals seeking consistent protection without daily dosing. 

Ultimately, this long-acting medication provides freedom from cravings. This allows individuals struggling with addiction to focus on rebuilding their lives, relationships, and sense of purpose.

How Does Vivitrol Work?

Vivitrol works by attaching to the opioid receptors in the brain, blocking the pleasurable or pain-relieving effects of opioids. 

Because these receptors are occupied by Vivitrol, clients cannot get high from opioids. Therefore, Vivitrol reduces the temptation to relapse. Eventually, this helps remove the cycle of reward and dependency associated with opioid use.

For alcohol use disorder, Vivitrol works differently. It does not block alcohol’s physical effects entirely. However, it reduces cravings, decreases the sense of reward when alcohol is consumed, and helps clients stay sober.

Is Vivitrol Effective?

Many studies show Vivitrol is effective in reducing relapse rates for both opioid and alcohol dependence.

Individuals using Vivitrol often experience:

• Fewer cravings
• Lower relapse risk
• Increased engagement in therapy and support
• Improved ability to focus on long-term goals
• Greater confidence in staying sober

It is important to note that Vivitrol is most effective when used as part of a complete treatment plan. This typically includes addiction therapy, support groups, and holistic modalities.

Vivitrol Side Effects

While Vivitrol is generally well-tolerated, clients may experience side effects. However, not everyone will experience these, and most are mild.

Side effects associated with the Vivitrol shot may include the following:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Injection-site pain or swelling
• Decreased appetite
• Insomnia
• Muscle or joint pain

In addition, clients must be opioid-free for 7 to 14 days before taking Vivitrol to avoid sudden withdrawal. That is why medical supervision is essential to the safety and success of treatment.

Vivitrol for Alcohol

For those struggling with alcohol dependence, Vivitrol can reduce cravings, decrease the rewarding effects of drinking, and support ongoing recovery efforts.

Alcohol cravings can be intense during the early stages of sobriety. Vivitrol helps stabilize this period so individuals can better engage in therapy and lifestyle changes.

Many people find that Vivitrol helps them feel more confident in their ability to remain sober. When combined with therapy at Time Wellness Detox, Vivitrol helps build a strong foundation for long-term sobriety.

Vivitrol for Opioid Addiction

Vivitrol is highly effective for those recovering from opioid use disorder who want to prevent relapse.

Unlike medications that maintain or partially replace opioids, Vivitrol fully blocks opioid receptors. This blocking effect makes it nearly impossible to get high while taking Vivitrol.

This blocking function helps clients break the cycle of drug-seeking, reduces cravings, and decreases the risk of accidental overdose. Furthermore, Vivitrol can help those transitioning from detox to outpatient care. It can also help those who have had repeated relapses and need extra support.

Our Arkansas Addiction Treatment Programs That Offer Vivitrol

At Time Wellness Detox, we incorporate Vivitrol into our personalized treatment plans to address each client’s needs, history, and goals.

The levels of care we offer are highlighted below:

• Medical Detox Programs: Medically supervised alcohol detox and opioid detox provide a safe environment for clients to withdraw from drugs or alcohol. During detox, our medical team monitors vital signs, manages withdrawal symptoms, and provides medications for comfort.
• Residential Rehab: Our residential rehab provides 24-hour, structured care in a safe and supportive setting. This allows individuals to focus entirely on recovery. Clients get therapy, medical supervision, and life skills support to build a strong foundation for long-term sobriety.
• Drug Rehab: Our drug rehab programs help clients overcome dependence on opioids, stimulants, and other drugs. With counseling, medical support, and behavioral therapy, clients learn how to manage cravings and prevent relapse.
• Alcohol Rehab: Alcohol rehab helps clients quit alcohol use while developing coping skills to stay sobriety. This includes medical care, therapy, and group support. This approach addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of alcohol use disorder.
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Dual diagnosis treatment treats co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. By treating both issues at the same time, clients are more likely to succeed in recovery and improve overall wellness.
• Aftercare: We are proud to offer aftercare programming to our clients who have completed primary treatment. Our goal is to provide them with the support needed to smoothly transition back into daily life.

How Is Vivitrol Prescribed?

A licensed medical professional prescribes the Vivitrol shot. It is administered as an intramuscular injection once every 28 to 30 days.

Before getting the medication, clients must undergo a medical assessment to ensure they are opioid-free and medically stable. Prescribing Vivitrol typically includes a medical evaluation. This evaluation includes the client’s substance use history, an assessment of withdrawal readiness, a discussion of treatment goals, and the injection itself by a trained provider.

Ongoing injections are scheduled monthly to maintain protection and support long-term recovery.

What Happens If You Take Opiates on Vivitrol?

If a person takes opioids while on Vivitrol, the medication blocks the effects. This means the individual will not feel high, even with large doses.

However, attempting to overcome the blocking effect by taking higher amounts of opioids can be extremely dangerous. This may result in overdose or serious medical complications. This is why clear communication, medical supervision, and supportive counseling are needed throughout treatment.

What Happens If You Drink on Vivitrol?

If an individual drinks alcohol while taking Vivitrol, the medication reduces the pleasurable effects of drinking.

While it does not block alcohol entirely, it makes drinking less rewarding. This can help clients break habitual drinking patterns and stay committed to recovery.

How Much Does Vivitrol Cost?

The cost of Vivitrol varies depending on insurance coverage, pharmacy prices, and medical provider fees. In many cases, insurance helps cover a portion of the cost.

For those without insurance, financial assistance may also be available. Our admissions team can help you verify insurance benefits. We’ll also explore financial options and determine the most affordable path forward.