Vivitrol Treatment in Lantana FL

Whether you’re addicted to alcohol or opioids, getting sober and staying sober can be a challenging journey. However, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has quickly gained popularity due to its effectiveness and popularity among those in recovery. One of the most widely used MAT medications is Vivitrol.

Vivitrol is used as a part of many addiction treatment programs in Lantana, Florida because it is safe, has a low risk profile, and can make staying sober feel easier. When combined with behavioral therapy and counseling, Vivitrol treatment in Lantana can help you achieve success on your path to recovery.

What is Vivitrol and What is it Used For?

Vivitrol is the brand name of a medication that contains naltrexone, a substance used in the treatment of alcohol and opioid dependence. Naltrexone is classified as an opioid antagonist, which means it blocks the effects of opioids in the brain. Naltrexone is available in various oral forms, however, Vivitrol is unique because it is an injection.

Vivitrol is administered via an intramuscular injection once a month. It is usually administered in the buttocks. Vivitrol is primarily used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT), an approach that involves the combination of counseling and peer support as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to help individuals stay abstinent from opioids or alcohol. By blocking the opioid receptors in the brain, it reduces cravings and the rewarding effects of these substances, helping individuals in recovery maintain sobriety.

Unlike other medications used for opioid addiction that contain opioids (such as methadone or buprenorphine/Suboxone), Vivitrol doesn’t have addictive properties or the potential for abuse due to its mechanism of action.

You can’t get high on Vivitrol, and you won’t experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Not only that, but Vivitrol’s extended-release mechanism allows the body to maintain steady levels of naltrexone all month long, reducing the need for daily medication. This is highly beneficial for people who struggle with medication adherence.

Does Vivitrol Cause Side Effects?

Like any medication, Vivitrol (naltrexone) can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The most common side effects are injection site reactions involving pain, swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site. These reactions are normal and typically subside after a couple of days.

Other common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Drowsiness
• Decreased appetite
• Muscle cramps
• Joint pain
• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Nervousness

While attending a Vivitrol treatment program in Lantana, a healthcare provider will carefully monitor your side effects and medication tolerance. They will also discuss any potential side effects with you before starting the medication. However, naltrexone often has fewer side effects than other medications used in MAT.

What Happens During a Vivitrol Treatment Program in Lantana, Florida?

Treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation and detox. During the evaluation, you’ll undergo various assessments and routine medical exams to determine your needs. You may be asked questions about your opioid or alcohol use history, medical history, mental health, treatment goals, and more. This information is used to create an individually tailored treatment plan.

It’s important to note that you can’t get your first Vivitrol shot until you have fully detoxed from alcohol and/or opioids. Healthcare providers generally require people to be abstinent for 7-10 days before starting the medication. As a result, you’ll need to detox under medical supervision before receiving your first dose. Alternative medications may be prescribed during detox to ease your withdrawal symptoms.

After 7-10 days, you’ll receive your first Vivitrol shot. The medication stays active in your system for 30 days, after which you’ll need to return to your physician for another injection. Meanwhile, it’s essential to participate in a comprehensive treatment program. While Vivitrol can stabilize brain chemistry and block cravings, the ultimate goal is to live a self-directed life without the medication, so you must learn the skills you need to stay sober. As a result, therapy is a major component of a Vivitrol treatment program.

Therapies that may be used during treatment include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
• Motivational interviewing
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• 12-Step facilitation

Each therapy will be tailored to your unique needs, ensuring the most effective approach for your recovery.

People may take Vivitrol for varying lengths of time. Your healthcare provider will help you determine when the right time is to quit taking it. Fortunately, quitting is easy, as naltrexone is not habit-forming and does not cause withdrawal symptoms.

Who is a Good Candidate for Vivitrol Treatment?

Vivitrol treatment in Lantana can be beneficial for individuals dealing with alcohol dependence or opioid use disorder. However, it’s important to note that a qualified healthcare provider is the only one who can determine whether it is right for you. Factors such as your medical history, potential health conditions, and other medications may influence this decision.

For individuals struggling with alcoholism, Vivitrol can help by reducing cravings and blocking the rewarding effects of alcohol. It can be a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and support services.

On the other hand, it can also be useful for individuals recovering from opioid addiction. It works by blocking the effects of opioids, which can reduce cravings and the potential for relapse. Vivitrol is an ideal option for people who prefer non-opioid MAT options or those who haven’t had success with opioid-based options like Suboxone.

Vivitrol treatment is often recommended for individuals who are highly motivated to stay sober and actively engage in an ongoing treatment program. It’s crucial for individuals receiving Vivitrol to commit to regular therapy, counseling, and support groups, as it is most effective when paired with these treatment services.

Find out if Vivitrol Treatment in Lantana, FL is Right for You

If you or a loved one are struggling with opioid or alcohol dependence, there are effective treatment options available. Addiction treatment isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, so the key to recovery is comprehensive, individualized care. At Archstone Behavioral Health, our team is dedicated to helping you find the treatment that works for you.

To learn more about our Vivitrol treatment program in Lantana or to get started with a confidential, risk-free assessment, please contact us today.