How do I know if Vivitrol is right for me?
Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Vivitrol is a safe and effective treatment option available for those who wish to overcome opioid addiction. Vivitrol includes naltrexone as its main active ingredient and lowers cravings for opioids, while also decreasing the symptoms associated with withdrawal. Vivitrol can be implemented into treatment once a patient has stopped using opioids such as morphine, heroin, or prescription painkillers. If a patient has not ceased his or her use of opioids, Vivitrol will not be given due to the extreme adverse effects that can take place.
If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to opioids, please consult one of the dedicated healthcare professionals at East Tennessee Addiction Specialist to discuss if incorporating Vivitrol into your medication assisted treatment program is the appropriate path to take.
Can I become addicted to Vivitrol?
Since medical professionals both administer this non-opioid via injection and monitor each dose given, it is extremely unlikely that a patient will become addicted to Vivitrol.
Will Vivitrol show up on a drug screen?
If a patient is required to complete a drug screen while being prescribed VIvitrol, a positive result will not take place. A specific drug test is required to detect Vivitrol within a person’s system. However, should a patient use other substances while prescribed Vivitrol, those substances will create a positive result on a drug test.
How long will I need to be on Vivitrol?
The length of time an individual will be prescribed Vivitrol will vary between patients based on their individual needs. Since Vivitrol has been proven safe for short and long-term use, some patients will continue receiving monthly injections for a shorter period of time, while others will continue taking this medication long-term. The majority of physicians suggest receiving Vivitrol for at least one year while simultaneously receiving counseling services. By discussing your overall treatment with your physician prior to your first injection, you will gain a better idea of how long you will need to remain on Vivitrol.
Does Vivitrol interact with other drugs or medications?
Since Vivitrol can interact negatively with other medications and drugs, it is important that patients refrain from using opioids and alcohol during their treatment. Patients should also notify their physician if they are taking any other vitamins, herbal supplements, or over-the-counter medications prior to adding Vivitrol to their medication assisted treatment plans to ensure no adverse effects take place.
What if I no longer wish to take Vivitrol? Can I stop or switch to a different medication?
Since Vivitrol is given once monthly, the medication’s extended-release properties will remain in a patient’s body for an entire month. Because of this, patients are unable to abruptly change to a different medication without first consulting with their physician.
What is the cost for Vivitrol treatment?
The cost of care at East Tennessee Addiction Specialist will vary between patients depending on the specific medications and therapeutic treatment options utilized. Please contact one of our dedicated intake experts to learn more about Vivitrol, as well as the other treatment options available.