5 Benefits of Vivitrol For Addiction Treatment

Vivitrol is a monthly injection of naltrexone that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat addictions to opioids and alcohol. It can only be used after detox and once you are no longer physically dependent on alcohol or opioids. Vivitrol is most effective when combined with behavioral therapy and counseling–a comprehensive treatment approach known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT).

Vivitrol may not be right for anyone, but it is an extremely useful medication that can promote sobriety in those struggling with addiction. Here are 5 of the most important benefits of using Vivitrol in addiction treatment.

1. Vivitrol Reduces Cravings for Opioids and Alcohol

Vivitrol contains naltrexone, an opioid antagonist medication that binds to and blocks opioid receptors. The binding process tricks the brain into thinking it has opioids in the system, thereby reducing opioid cravings. The blocking mechanism prevents other opioids from being able to attach to opioid receptors.[1] In other words, if you take an opioid while on naltrexone, you won’t feel the euphoric effects of the opioid. This can reduce the desire to use opioids.

When it comes to treating alcohol, naltrexone helps regulate brain function and restore healthy chemical balances which can reduce alcohol cravings.[2]

Cravings are a major obstacle that you must overcome in recovery, but some people need a little extra help dealing with cravings while they take the time to recover. This is where Vivitrol comes into play. Vivitrol minimizes cravings while you participate in therapy and other holistic healing activities that encourage sobriety.

2. There are Very Few Side Effects and Risks

Treatment medications like Suboxone, methadone, and Antabuse all come with a long list of side effects. Although Vivitrol can cause side effects too, the ones it does cause are usually mild and they subside within a couple of days or weeks after receiving the injection.

The most common side effects are injection site reactions including redness, itching, swelling, and irritation. These side effects are normal with any kind of injection–even vaccines. Other common side effects include:[3]

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Tiredness
• Anxiety
• Loss of appetite

Many people have no noticeable side effects whatsoever.

3. There is No Risk of Abuse or Addiction When Using Vivitrol

Vivitrol is unique among FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder because it is not habit-forming. While other medications such as buprenorphine and methadone are effective in managing opioid addiction, they can create physical dependence. Even when taken exactly as prescribed, stopping these medications may trigger withdrawal symptoms.

This is not the case with Vivitrol.

Naltrexone, the active ingredient in Vivitrol, does not produce euphoria and is not physically addictive. Patients can discontinue Vivitrol without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, Vivitrol is administered only in a medical setting, which eliminates any risk of diversion or misuse.

Because it cannot be abused or cause addiction, Vivitrol is a highly valued option for individuals seeking a safe and effective path to recovery.

4. A Monthly Injection is Easier to Keep Up With Than a Daily Pill

People who struggle with substance use disorders or mental health conditions typically have poorer rates of medication adherence than the general population.[4,5] Remembering to take a pill every day may sound easy, but it is just as easy to forget. Forgetting to take a daily medication can make the medication ineffective or cause sudden withdrawal symptoms.

However, with Vivitrol, you don’t have to worry about adhering to a daily medication schedule. Vivitrol is administered once every 28-30 days in a medical office, so all you have to worry about is making it to your monthly appointment. This makes Vivitrol a preferable option for people who struggle with taking daily medications.

5. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) With Vivitrol Can Improve Treatment Outcomes

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), medication-assisted treatment can improve treatment retention and completion rates. It can also reduce the risk for relapse since medications alleviate cravings and MAT provides a more comprehensive, individually-tailored approach.[6]

Overall, using Vivitrol as part of your treatment program may improve treatment outcomes. While the injection helps you cope with cravings, you can focus 100% of your energy on your therapy sessions. This will help you get better faster.