MenuClose

What Are the Benefits of Vivitrol Treatment?

a young woman thanks her doctor for the benefits she experienced from vivitrol treatment

In medication-assisted treatment for addiction, Vivitrol benefits are much talked about. Vivitrol is an injection (administered once a month) that is highly effective in reducing cravings and preventing relapse. There are also other benefits of Vivitrol treatment, such as minimal side effects and no risk of physical dependency. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism or a substance use disorder, reach out to Northpoint Seattle’s Vivitrol treatment program at the earliest.

A Vivitrol treatment program benefits those who have already completed detox and are focused on building healthy habits for long-term healing. To learn more about the benefits of Vivitrol treatment and if it is the right fit for you, call us at 888.483.6031.

What Are the Benefits of Vivitrol Treatment?

Vivitrol is actually the brand name for naltrexone. It is an opioid agonist that blocks specific receptors in the brain. Thus, the person does not feel the euphoric effects of alcohol or opioids, and neither do they feel the urge to consume such substances. As a result, the cravings are reduced, and the person can focus on their psychological well-being.

The various Vivitrol treatment program benefits are discussed below:

Simple, Hassle-free Procedure

Vivitrol is commonly administered by a medical professional as an injection into the buttocks once every four weeks.

Thus, unlike prescription pills which need to be taken every day, you don’t need to worry about accidentally forgetting about the medication. Even if you do miss an appointment, you can easily arrange for another.

No Risk of Chemical Dependency

Moreover, prescription pills carry a risk of physical dependency. A person may be on prescription medication to reduce their cravings for a particular drug and end up developing an addiction to the pill itself.

However, the Vivitrol injection carries no such risks. If the injection is suddenly stopped, the person will not experience any painful withdrawal symptoms or develop cravings for Vivitrol.

Minimizes Cravings

The primary Vivitrol benefits include reduced cravings. Even after detox, some people experience intense cravings for drugs or alcohol—especially if they are triggered or they are in an environment where others are consuming substances. Vivitrol protects against such things and improves their abstention rate.

Prevents Chances of a Relapse

Thus, Vivitrol is crucial to maintaining one’s sobriety. Even after formally completing treatment, a patient may relapse and undergo detox again.

The monthly injection usually prevents such a thing from happening and is a key component of any relapse-prevention plan.

Minimal Side-Effects

Prescription medication often has side effects and may not be suitable for all. However, the side effects of Vivitrol are comparatively mild, such as

  • Light headaches
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Sleepiness
  • Low energy
  • Reduced appetite
  • Dialarhoea

After taking the shot, the patient is advised not to engage in strenuous work, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. However, if a person experiences severe abdominal pain, bowel issues, or an allergic reaction, they must report such symptoms immediately and seek medical care.

Moreover, if a person has liver or kidney issues or a bleeding problem, Vivitrol may not be suitable for them. Similarly, if the patient is still consuming alcohol or drugs, they may not be ready for Vivitrol treatment.

Thus, be sure to discuss your medical history and recovery goals before enrolling in a Vivitrol treatment program.

Get Help and Healing at Northpoint Recovery

At Northpoint Recovery, we offer a safe and supportive healing space for patients to recover from addiction and live fulfilling lives.

We offer a variety of treatment options, such as partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, that can be further personalized based on your unique needs, budget, and schedule. Each patient in our care receives the highest levels of care, medical attention, and therapeutic support.

Affordable and accessible addiction treatment is just a phone call away. Call us at 888.483.6031 and take the first step in your healing journey today. You can also reach us via our online form.