Many people in the United States struggle with alcohol or opioid dependence. Living with an untreated substance use disorder can lead to many serious, sometimes life-threatening consequences. People with opioid use disorder or alcohol dependence require comprehensive addiction treatment programs.
Vivitrol treatment can help people with opioid or alcohol addiction safely stop using these substances. Vivitrol is a prescription medication that can reduce cravings and help people have a complete detox from alcohol or opioids.
This article will outline what to expect during a Vivitrol treatment program in New Mexico. You will also learn how to find medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs near you.
Contact the Ascend Recovery Center specialists to learn about our comprehensive addiction treatment programs. Our intake team will answer your questions, verify your insurance, and schedule an intake assessment as soon as possible.
What is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is a prescription medication that contains a drug called naltrexone. Naltrexone belongs to a class of drugs called opioid agonists, meaning that it blocks opioid receptors.
Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors in the brain. Vivitrol blocks the effects of opioids, such as heroin, oxycodone, codeine, and morphine.
Vivitrol is an intramuscular injection that is administered once a month by a healthcare professional. Unlike other MAT medications, Vivitrol eliminates the need for daily medication and reduces the potential for medication misuse.
People being treated for alcohol dependence or who are addicted to opioids may take Vivitrol during detox and rehabilitation. Vivitrol therapy reduces cravings in the earliest stages of sobriety. It can support long-term relapse prevention.
What Side Effects Could I Experience During Vivitrol Treatment?
Like most medications, Vivitrol can cause side effects. During treatment, you may experience mild or serious side effects.
Here are some of the most common side effects of Vivitrol.
Mild side effects
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Joint pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Muscle cramps
- Itching or swelling at the injection site
- Toothache
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Sleep problems
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Belly pain
In most cases, mild side effects will disappear within days or weeks.
Serious side effects
- Liver damage
- Eosinophilic pneumonia
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Allergic reaction
- Severe reaction at the injection site
People who begin taking Vivitrol before completing an opioid detox may experience sudden withdrawal symptoms during treatment, including:
- Body aches
- Vomiting
- Excessive sweating
- High blood pressure
- Hallucinations
- Runny nose
- Chills
- Anxiety
- Seizures
Medical support and supervision are essential during detox and throughout Vivitrol treatment.
Long-term side effects
Vivitrol treatment can result in long-term side effects, including:
- Liver problems, including hepatitis
- Severe depression
These serious, long-term side effects are rare. However, it is important to watch for signs of these problems and seek treatment right away.
What to Expect in a Vivitrol Treatment Program in New Mexico
If you live with opioid use disorder or alcohol addiction, your doctor may recommend Vivitrol treatment. Vivitrol treatment has been shown to reduce drug use and prevent relapse. Participating in a Vivitrol treatment program may improve your quality of life.
People in a Vivitrol treatment program receive a monthly injection of Vivitrol. A medical professional will administer the injection into the muscles of the buttocks.
People must complete detox from alcohol or opioids before beginning a Vivitrol treatment program. It is not an emergency treatment. Instead, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a comprehensive rehab program that focuses on long-term recovery. It combines behavioral therapy and counseling with FDA-approved medications designated to treat certain substance use disorders.
Here is an overview of what to expect in a MAT program in New Mexico.
Assessment
Before beginning Vivitrol treatment, a medical or addiction professional will assess your needs. Your assessment will consist of:
- Questions about your substance use
- A physical exam
- Lab testing
- A complete medical and mental health history
This information will help your treatment team create a tailored, effective treatment plan. It will also help your team identify issues that could complicate detox and treatment.
Detox
Before starting a Vivitrol treatment program, you must complete a detox program. During detox, your treatment team will monitor and treat your withdrawal symptoms. Your treatment plan may include:
- Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and keep you comfortable
- Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
- 24/7 supervision
- A safe, secure environment
- Holistic therapies, including exercise, mindfulness, and nutrition support
A medically-supported detox program can ensure that you remain safe and comfortable throughout the detox process. After 7-14 days of abstinence from alcohol and any opioid drugs, individuals may receive their first Vivitrol injection.
Treatment
Before beginning Vivitrol therapy, a medical provider may conduct a naloxone challenge test. During this test, the specialist will give you an injection of low-dose naloxone and watch for withdrawal symptoms.
If you do not exhibit withdrawal symptoms, you may receive Vivitrol. Your Vivitrol treatment program will include monthly injections of Vivitrol.
Addiction is a complex condition with psychological, physical, and behavioral roots. In addition to receiving Vivitrol each month, you must participate in a comprehensive treatment program. A treatment program may include:
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Medical and mental health treatment
- Relapse prevention education
- Aftercare planning
Your doctor will advise you on how and when to complete Vivitrol treatment.
Find Out if Our Vivitrol Treatment Program in Albuquerque is Right for You
If you or someone you love struggles with opioid or alcohol addiction, effective treatment is available at Ascend Recovery Centers in New Mexico. Contact our specialists now to explore your treatment options or to schedule an intake assessment.
