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Overdose, relapse, and staying clean are some of the biggest concerns people with an addiction have. When you or someone you care about has an opioid or heroin addiction, those concerns become even more heightened, leading to fears of death and overdose.

That’s where medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can mitigate these concerns. Using medication for addiction is a proven and effective way to treat opioid addiction and prevent overdose. There are a few medications you may have heard of, like suboxone and methadone, but there are more that specifically treat opioid addiction and overdose. With so many options, people often get the medications for addiction treatment mixed up.

Two commonly used (and commonly confused) anti-opiate drugs are Vivitrol and Narcan. These medications are used in opioid addiction treatment and overdose, but they have their unique differences that are crucial to know.

Master Center has nearly a dozen providers and doctors who’ve used these medications and others to treat thousands of patients and possibly prevent thousands of overdoses, relapses, and fatalities from opioid addiction. These specialists have provided their knowledge and expertise on the differences between Vivitrol and Narcan, so you can learn more about the available treatment options and how medication plays a major role in combating addiction.

Are Vivitrol and Narcan the Same Thing?

On a scientific level, yes—but on a practical level, no.

Vivitrol (the brand name for Naltrexone) and Narcan (the brand name for Naloxone) are both opioid antagonists. It means they block the effects of opioids and other drugs like heroin from affecting the brain. However, they’re not used in the same way, and they’re meant to be prescribed in different settings based on special situations.

5 Main Differences Between Vivitrol and Narcan

There are deeper differences between Vivitrol and Narcan, including:

1. Differences in urgency of use.

2. Differences in how they’re administered.

3. Differences in the length of their effects.

4. Differences in side effects.

5. Differences in availability.

Let’s go over these differences more in depth.

1. Differences in Urgency of Use

The most critical distinction between Vivitrol and Narcan is the urgency of use and when to administer the medication. Knowing the difference could save someone’s life.

Narcan (Naloxone) is Used Immediately for Overdose

Most commonly, Narcan is for treating opiate overdoses, such as reversing a fentanyl overdose. The drug in Narcan, Naloxone, is used to reverse the effects of an overdose quickly. Naloxone is attracted to the brain’s opioid receptors and allows them to rapidly knock opioids off the receptors. This reverses the opioid’s effects, helping restore normal breathing and consciousness in a person experiencing an overdose. When following step-by-step instructions, any person can administer it at a moment’s notice if someone is displaying signs of an overdose.

Vivitrol is Used in Long-Term Opioid Addiction Treatment

On the other hand, Vivitrol—or Naltrexone—is typically part of an ongoing treatment plan for opioid or alcohol addictions. Vivitrol is a longer-term solution and is not intended for use in the moment of an overdose, unlike Narcan.

Vivitrol is typically used for people who are well established in treatment programs. It’s not used in rescue situations, but has great evidence in helping people be successful in their recovery and reduce cravings.

Essentially, Narcan is used for immediate emergencies and by anyone, while Vivitrol is for long-term maintenance and is only given by medical providers.

2. Differences in How They’re Administered

While there are injectable options for both naloxone and naltrexone, Vivitrol and Narcan have specific, alternative administration methods.

Vivitrol is Given Via Injection

Vivitrol (Naltrexone) is administered through a shot every 30 days and is always given by a medical provider. The injection form of Naltrexone allows the chemical to be released periodically throughout the body over 30 days and then replaced with a fresh dose by the next injection date.

Narcan is Typically a Nasal Spray

Narcan (Naloxone) administration typically uses an auto-injector or nasal spray. If injected, it should be on the thigh. If given via nasal spray, the person receiving the medication should lie on their back. However, always be sure to follow the instructions in the guide when using Narcan.

You can explore more about how to administer Narcan and where to get training on the VA Department of Behavioral Health website.

3. Differences in the Length of Their Effects

Narcan Works Immediately, but the Effects Are Shorter

Narcan immediately affects the person who receives it, and the effects may last anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes in the body. This period usually allows the body to recover from most opiate abuse and overdose. Still, if someone has taken a large amount, they may need another Narcan dose after 90 minutes have elapsed. It’s important to remember that Narcan is a temporary, short-lasting medication, and emergency services need to be called.

Vivitrol Works Over a Period of Time, and Effects Last Longer

Vivitrol, on the other hand, is designed to last longer than Narcan at up to 30 days. Because Vivitrol’s main purpose is to suppress addiction cravings, it works long-term, and the effects are released over a period of time. Additionally, with Vivitrol, the naltrexone chemical is released periodically, so the medication works little by little in between injections.

The differences in length of their effects are what make Narcan a short-acting medication and Vivitrol a long-term medication.

4. Differences in Side Effects

Just like any other medication you take—from diabetic medications to daily vitamins—Vivitrol and Narcan have side effects. Regardless, it’s always important to consult with a medical provider about these effects and alert them immediately if any signs worsen.

Side Effects of Vivitrol and Narcan

Narcan (Naltrexone) commonly causes appetite loss as well as aches and pains. It can also cause:

• Diarrhea, constipation, or vomiting

• Sleepiness or insomnia

• Restlessness or irritability

Vivitrol (Naloxone) can have similar side effects as Narcan, but specific ones include:

• Nausea 

• Muscle weakness or achiness 

• Dizziness 

• Decreased appetite 

• Headache 

• Rash or muscle pain at the injection site

5. Differences in Availability

The last and one of the biggest differences between Vivitrol and Narcan is their availability, as one is easier to access than the other.

Narcan Can Be Accessed by Anyone

In some places, Narcan is available without a prescription in a drug overdose kit that anyone can purchase. There are even organizations that offer training and certifications on how to administer Narcan, which makes it much more accessible.

Some places you can receive Narcan and/or receive training include:

• HarmReduction.org (a nationwide Naloxone finder).

• REVIVE! Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education Program.

• Local Virginia health departments.

• Virginia community service boards.

• Over-the-counter at most pharmacies.

Vivitrol Requires a Prescription

Vivitrol (Naltrexone) always requires a medical provider to prescribe, and it can only be administered in a clinical environment. If you’re interested in a Vivitrol prescription, be sure to consult with a medical provider or specialist to see if it’s an appropriate medication for you.

Knowing the Differences Can Be Lifesaving

Vivitrol and Narcan are important medications used to combat opioid addiction. While they are both opioid antagonists and work within the body similarly, they have notable differences that you should be aware of, so you can understand the best situations for their use.

Also, remember to always first consult with a medical provider before starting any medication program in addiction treatment. If you’re interested in learning more about medication-assisted treatment at Master Center or the different types of medications used, we recommend exploring our other articles on the topic:

• Suboxone and Methadone Differences: How They Work, Side Effects, & Effectiveness: Explore how suboxone and methadone help treat addiction, and how to know which one is best.

• 5 Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment: Take a deeper look at how medication plays a role in treating alcohol and drug addiction.

• Brixadi: How it Treats Opioid Addiction: Learn how the newer medication, Brixadi, prevents opioid overdose, withdrawal, and cravings.

And, if you’re ready to take that step toward recovery, schedule a consultation appointment with us to see if MAT is right for you.

About Master Center

Master Center is a groundbreaking addiction treatment program headquartered in Glen Allen, Va. Based on a vision of comprehensive outpatient care, Master Center was launched in 2016 and now includes locations throughout the Commonwealth.

Master Center offers a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach rarely seen in the outpatient setting, staffed by experienced addiction physicians, psychiatrists, counselors, therapists, and peer recovery coaches.