Vivitrol Treatment Programs in New Jersey: What to Expect

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Medically Verified: March 15, 2024

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Vivitrol Treatment Programs in New Jersey

Vivitrol Treatment Programs in New Jersey: What to Expect

Two of the most widely abused substances in the United States are alcohol and opioids. In 2022, 29.5 million people had an alcohol use disorder, 5 million had a prescription opioid use disorder, and more than 1 million had a heroin use disorder.

Recovery from opioid or alcohol addiction often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Treatment may involve counseling, behavioral therapy, and even medical interventions. One type of medical intervention that can be used to treat both alcohol and opioid addiction is medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol.

If you or a loved one are wondering if Vivitrol treatment in New Jersey is the right choice for you, please contact our compassionate admissions counselors at The Living Room today.

What is Vivitrol?

Vivitrol is a brand name for a medication called naltrexone, which is used primarily to treat alcohol and opioid dependence. Unlike other forms of naltrexone which are taken by mouth, Vivitrol is administered via an injection that lasts for about a month, eliminating the need for daily medication adherence. 

Vivitrol blocks the effects of opioids and alcohol in the brain, reducing cravings and preventing the pleasurable effects of these substances, which can help individuals in recovery maintain sobriety. Vivitrol is used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes counseling and support to address the psychological aspects of addiction.

How Does Vivitrol Work to Treat Alcohol and Opioid Addiction?

Vivitrol was initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2006 to treat alcohol dependence

When someone consumes alcohol, it binds to certain receptors in the brain, leading to the release of endorphins, which are chemicals associated with pleasure and reward. This reinforcement of pleasurable feelings can contribute to the development of alcohol dependence. 

Naltrexone, the active ingredient in Vivitrol, blocks these receptors, specifically the opioid receptors, thereby reducing the pleasurable effects of alcohol. This helps to decrease cravings for alcohol and reduces the likelihood of relapse among individuals in recovery.

In 2010, the FDA approved Vivitrol for the treatment of opioid dependence.

When taking opioids, they bind to opioid receptors in the brain, producing feelings of pain relief and euphoria. In individuals with opioid addiction, the brain becomes dependent on opioids to produce these effects, leading to cravings and compulsive drug-seeking behavior. Naltrexone in Vivitrol also blocks these opioid receptors, preventing the euphoric effects of opioids. By blocking the rewarding effects of opioids, Vivitrol helps to reduce cravings and prevent relapse in individuals recovering from opioid addiction.

Does Vivitrol Cause Side Effects?

Injections of Vivitrol are administered intramuscularly. They are normally given in the buttocks in the gluteal muscle. The Vivitrol shot itself may cause slight pain and soreness, and minor injection site reactions are common. People often report redness, irritation, itching, or swelling at the injection site, but these symptoms generally resolve on their own within a few days.

Other common side effects of Vivitrol are:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Anxiety
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Stomach pain
  • Nervousness
  • Restlessness
  • Irritability
  • Muscle or joint pain
  • Drowsiness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Insomnia
  • Increased thirst
  • Weakness

Be sure to inform your healthcare provider of any medical conditions you have as well as any vitamins or herbal supplements you may be taking before starting treatment. Vivitrol should not be given to people who have liver problems as it can make them worse over time. 

If you are taking Vivitrol and experience any side effects that don’t resolve, get worse, or require hospitalization such as trouble breathing or wheezing, speak with your healthcare provider immediately.

Vivitrol should only be given after individuals have completed detox. Taking Vivitrol while opioids are still in the system can result in serious side effects, such as blurry vision, hallucinations, confusion, anxiety, severe vomiting, and extreme diarrhea. However, when taken as prescribed, Vivitrol is safe and effective.

Treatment With Vivitrol: Counseling, Therapy, Medication Management, and More

Vivitrol is most effective when combined with a complete treatment program involving counseling and behavioral therapy. Treatment begins with detox, during which individuals detox from drugs and alcohol while under medical supervision. After 7-14 days, individuals may receive their first Vivitrol shot.

Vivitrol is administered once a month. In between injections, individuals are expected to participate in a substance abuse treatment program. Treatment involves:

  • Behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Group, individual, and family therapy sessions
  • Case management services
  • Relapse prevention education and planning
  • Peer support groups
  • Medication management to monitor your side effects and progress
  • Aftercare planning and support

Treatment programs may last between 30-90 days, with some extended-care options lasting longer. How long individuals stay on Vivitrol depends on the person’s situation and the professional opinion of the prescribing physician. By reducing cravings, Vivitrol can make it easier to focus on treatment and stay on the path toward recovery.

Are Vivitrol Injections Covered by Insurance?

Vivitrol may be covered on your insurance, but depending on your benefit plan, your insurance may require prior authorization. The amount your insurance will cover depends on various factors, such as your coverage, deductible, co-pays, and more. However, the therapy and counseling portion of your treatment program will be covered by your insurance.

Find Out if Vivitrol Treatment in New Jersey is Right For You

If you are addicted to opioids or alcohol, treatment with Vivitrol may be right for you. Vivitrol offers several benefits, including its long-acting formulation, which eliminates the requirement of daily medication as well as the risk of abuse, and its ability to reduce cravings and prevent relapse. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if Vivitrol is the appropriate treatment option for your individual needs. 

At The Living Room at Princeton, our comprehensive addiction treatment program is designed to support people who are taking Vivitrol. We offer multiple levels of care, evidence-based treatments, and individually tailored care plans for each individual. To learn more about our Vivitrol treatment programs in New Jersey or to verify your insurance coverage, please contact us today.

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More than anybody, we understand that reaching out for help can be difficult. If you have any questions about our programs, services or the recovery process itself; please connect with us now. We are here to provide guidance and support… every step of the way.

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