4 Questions to Ask Your Vivitrol Doctor Q&A

Vivitrol shots are an injectable prescription medication that is used to treat substance dependence, including alcohol dependence and opioid dependence. It is a long-lasting form of the medication naltrexone, which is an opioid receptor antagonist, that can be used as part of a treatment program that also includes counseling and other treatments or resources to further support the patient through their substance use disorder. Naltrexone works by binding to the opioid receptors located in the brain to prevent relapse and to prevent the effects of opioid medication being experienced by the individual, such as the feelings of pain relief or well-being that typically lead to the abuse of opioids. Vivitrol is only used on patients who have either stopped alcohol consumption but are not receiving treatment in a hospital or to prevent a dependence on opioids in those who have already detoxed from opioids.

Vivitrol injections can be incredibly useful in promoting sobriety among those struggling with substance use disorders. One of the primary benefits of this medication is that the binding process provided by the naltrexone tricks the brain into thinking that there are already opioids in the system, effectively reducing opioid cravings, which means that if another opioid is taken while on Vivitrol, there will be no euphoric effect experienced, significantly reducing the desire to use opioids. When taken to treat alcohol dependence, Vivitrol can regulate brain function by restoring healthy chemical balances, effectively reducing cravings for alcohol. Another benefit of taking Vivitrol over other types of medications is that it causes far fewer and milder side effects that typically subside within a few days following the injection. Additionally, naltrexone does not contain addictive properties, so it does not provide patients with any sensations of euphoria that make opioids so addictive and patients can stop taking Vivitrol without having to worry about experiencing symptoms of withdrawal. Since the injections of Vivitrol are administered monthly, patients don’t have to worry about remembering to take daily pills, making it a better option for individuals who struggle to take medications daily.

One of the most significant benefits of taking Vivitrol as part of a medication-assisted treatment plan for substance abuse is that it has proven to improve treatment retention and completion rates while reducing the risk for relapse, providing patients with a much higher chance of long-term success.

Individuals paying for Vivitrol out of pocket can expect to pay anywhere from $1,150 to $1,700 per month for the single injection. It is common to receive at least partial coverage for the medication when it is prescribed as part of an opioid treatment program. The price of Vivitrol can vary depending on the costs determined by the pharmacy and the location of the pharmacy (with the local cost of living being a factor). It is also possible for individuals to get Vivitrol for free if they are eligible for the Vivitrol savings program or if they qualify for federal or state free treatment programs. 

Each injection of Vivitrol lasts between 25 and 50 days, so it is typically administered every 4 weeks when used as part of an opioid use disorder treatment program. The medication is released very slowly over time to ensure that it remains effective for the entire month. Most healthcare providers will recommend that patients receive monthly injections of Vivitrol for at least one year, although some individuals will continue to receive the injections long-term or will only need to receive injections for a few months. The length of time for which Vivitrol injections will continue to be administered is entirely dependent on the individual, with use only being continued as long as it remains a safe and effective treatment option. Injections of Vivitrol should be stopped if the patient is showing any signs of hepatitis, as well as any symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts.

Vivitrol is available at Invictus4Core. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 3150 Custer Dr Suite 101, Lexington, KY 40517. We serve patients from Lexington KY, Picadome KY Nicholasville KY, Keene KY, Georgetown KY, Brannon Woods KY, and all other surrounding areas in Kentucky.