What is Vivitrol used for?

Vivitrol is a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) alternative for the treatment of alcohol and opioid use disorders. The active ingredient in Vivitrol, naltrexone, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2006 for the treatment of both alcohol and opioid use disorders. Vivitrol can be used as part of an alcohol and opioid addiction treatment plan.

Vivitrol is not a cure for addiction, although it can aid in the treatment of addiction. If you're having trouble staying sober when you first start treatment, Vivitrol can help you stay sober and overcome physical dependence on alcohol or opioids. Vivitrol decreases cravings in people who are addicted to opioids or alcohol by blocking the "feel-good" chemicals released in the brain when they drink.

Vivitrol injections can help you manage cravings and impulses during early addiction recovery. You may experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when detoxing. To avoid these symptoms, you may be inclined to use substances again.

Vivitrol should only be used after detox and not if you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms from severe drinking or opioid use. Vivitrol is used following alcohol and opioid detoxification to aid in maintaining sobriety during the early stages of recovery.

If you are at risk of relapse due to painful withdrawal symptoms during detox, Vivitrol treatment may be part of your addiction treatment. If you have a background of excessive drinking or opioid use, you may be at a higher risk of relapse even after detox.