Vivitrol is an extended-release version of the drug naltrexone that is used to reduce cravings for alcohol and drugs. It blocks the effects of opioids and other addictive substances, making it more difficult for users to experience a high. The medication also blocks the pleasurable feelings triggered by drinking alcohol or using drugs, which can help people who are prone to relapse avoid these activities.
Vivitrol injection side effects may include nausea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and changes in appetite. These are typically mild and short-lived. As with any drug, there is a potential for serious side effects when you use Vivitrol.
Although rare, these could include hepatitis B reactivation or an allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
What is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is an opioid antagonist that is used as part of an inpatient or outpatient treatment program for alcohol and opioid addiction. It is used to reduce cravings for alcohol and drugs, including opioids such as heroin, prescription pain relievers, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
Vivitrol blocks the effects of opioids and other addictive substances, making it more difficult for users to experience a high. The medication also blocks the pleasurable feelings triggered by drinking alcohol or using drugs, which can help people who are prone to relapse avoid these activities.
Vivitrol injection side effects may include nausea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and changes in appetite. These are typically mild and short-lived. As with any drug, there is a potential for serious side effects when you use Vivitrol.
Although rare, these could include hepatitis B reactivation or an allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
How does Vivitrol work?
Vivitrol acts as an opioid antagonist, preventing the user from experiencing a high or feeling the pain-relieving effects of opioids and alcohol. When a person takes opioid drugs or consumes alcohol, their brains produce natural opioids called endorphins, which create a feeling of pleasure and reduce pain.
Vivitrol blocks the receptors in the brain that bind to these endorphins, preventing them from reaching the brain.
Without endorphins, the user is less likely to experience a high or feel the pain-relieving effects of opioids and alcohol, which can help people avoid relapsing while they go through treatment.
Who should use Vivitrol?
People who have alcohol or drug addictions that they are trying to quit may be prescribed Vivitrol. People who are in an inpatient addiction treatment facility may be prescribed
Vivitrol as an initial detox method to prevent them from experiencing withdrawal symptoms while they go through detox. People who are in outpatient addiction treatment or are in early recovery from addiction may be prescribed Vivitrol along with other medications or therapy. Depending on the person’s situation, the doctor may prescribe
Vivitrol for 6 to 12 months. Younger people with opioid addictions should be prescribed naltrexone instead of Vivitrol.
When and how to administer Vivitrol injections?
For best results, you should receive your Vivitrol injection at the same time each day. Your doctor or healthcare provider will determine the best time for you to receive your injection.
You may receive your injection while you are lying down, sitting, or standing. The best location for your injection will depend on your individual circumstances. Your doctor or healthcare provider will decide how many injections you will receive and when you will receive each one.
Vivitrol is injected into the muscle in the abdomen or the upper leg. Your injection will likely be given by a healthcare provider in a clinic or hospital setting. Your healthcare provider will clean the injection site with an antiseptic before giving the injection. You may experience some minor pain or discomfort during the injection.
If you are using Vivitrol as part of an outpatient treatment program, you will receive your injection during a clinic visit. You will be provided with an injection kit that includes all the supplies you need for each injection.
Vivitrol injection side effects may include nausea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and changes in appetite. These are typically mild and short-lived.
Where to get a Vivitrol injection?
Vivitrol injections are given by a healthcare provider who is familiar with the use of this medication. You may receive your injections in a medical setting, such as a hospital or medical clinic. Or you may be prescribed the medication with instructions for self-injection.
If you receive your injections in a medical setting, you should be prepared to wait. These appointments usually take longer than appointments for other types of injections.
Why is Vivitrol used to treat addiction?
Vivitrol has emerged as a new and effective treatment option for addiction to alcohol, opioids, and other substances.
Vivitrol is an extended-release injectable form of naltrexone, an opioid antagonist medication that is FDA approved as treatment for alcohol and opioid addiction.
Vivitrol blocks the receptors in the brain that bind to certain opioids, including heroin, and alcohol. This blocks the pleasurable feelings that accompany these substances.
Vivitrol injection side effects may include nausea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and changes in appetite.
Conclusion
Vivitrol is an extended-release injectable form of naltrexone, an opioid antagonist medication that is FDA approved as treatment for alcohol and opioid addiction. Vivitrol blocks the receptors in the brain that bind to certain opioids, including heroin, and alcohol.
This blocks the pleasurable feelings that accompany these substances. Vivitrol injection side effects may include nausea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and changes in appetite.
These are typically mild and short-lived. As with any drug, there is a potential for serious side effects when you use Vivitrol. Although rare, these could include hepatitis B reactivation or an allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
