Vivitrol (also known as Naltrexone) is an injection-based medication that’s designed to help reduce cravings for opioids and alcohol. Our treatment support in Richmond, VA is typically for those who’ve completed a detox but are still struggling with cravings. 

The reason why substance abuse is such a horrible disease is that cravings can last for weeks, months, or even years after completing a treatment program. Drugs like Vivitrol can help patients maintain a long-term sober lifestyle. A medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program is most effective when combined with other detox services. 

Here at Master Center, we offer Vivitrol treatment along with numerous other plans to help those struggling within Richmond, VA. 

Why Use Vivitrol To Treat Addiction

Opioid and alcohol addiction are a massive problem in Richmond, VA and most parts of the United States. Over 50,000 people die a year from overdoses and other substance-related instances, leaving behind grief for families and loved ones. As a result, we need reliable treatment options for those struggling with substance control. 

Many prescription drugs are highly addictive and can be incredibly difficult to quit on your own. The body becomes physically dependent on the substance, which can lead to life-threatening withdrawal symptoms and numerous other hardships. The withdrawal symptoms alone can make these substances almost impossible to beat.

Vivitrol helps patients reduce their cravings and transition to a life of sobriety. While still relatively new, it’s been shown to be far more efficient and safer than other MAT drugs like Methadone and Suboxone.

Furthermore, Naltrexone is covered by most popular insurance policies. 

How Can Vivitrol Help Someone in Addiction Treatment?

Above, we mention that Vivitrol helps reduce cravings for opioids and alcohol, but how does it work? 

Here’s a quick breakdown of how Vivitrol affects the body and helps those struggling with addiction:

Vivitrol for Opioid Treatment

Vivitrol (Naltrexone) is an opioid antagonist drug. These drugs block the opioid receptors in the brain, ultimately eliminating the effects of the substance. Other MAT medications activate the receptors to give the body the feeling you would get from taking opioids, where Vivitrol blocks the sensation entirely. 

Naltrexone is quite unique as it can bind to receptors without activating them. As a result, cravings are fulfilled without altering the patient’s mental or physical state. In a way, it tricks the body into thinking it’s receiving a sensation without any effect whatsoever. 

When a patient undergoes a MAT with Vivitrol, the likelihood of relapse is slim to none. Furthermore, patients in Richmond, VA can focus on building a healthier and more proactive lifestyle since their minds are functioning normally.

Vivitrol for Alcohol Treatment

Unlike with opioids, there isn’t a direct link as to how Naltrexone can treat a person’s perception of alcohol consumption. However, it has a similar effect as it reduces cravings and makes it easier for a patient to recover. 

That said, medication alone can’t completely treat someone with alcoholism. For the best results, they need to combine their MAT program with other detox and rehab services available in Richmond, VA. 

How Long is Vivitrol Treatment?

Patients in Richmond, VA are suitable for Naltrexone treatment after they’ve successfully detoxed a substance out of their system. 

The detoxification process can take anywhere from 7 to 14 days, depending on how severe their drug or alcohol addiction is. Naltrexone is effective for roughly one month, so patients need to have an injection monthly to achieve the best results. 

The duration of drug addiction treatment for patients in Richmond, VA depends on their goals. Some patients may only need a few injections after a detox where others require medication for years. We typically recommend our patients receive a Naltrexone injection at least once annually for the best results. 

To better understand which route is best for you or your loved ones, speak to one of our care specialists about our services and insurance partners at our location in Richmond, VA. 

What Are the Side Effects?

Like most drugs, Naltrexone is known to have some side effects, such as:

  • Headaches
  • Diarrhea
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Decreased appetite
  • Stomach pain

Our Vivitrol Treatment Approach

Here at Master Center in Richmond, VA, Vivitrol is one of our most effective medication-assisted treatment programs. Our certified care specialists do an initial consultation with all new patients and determine which rehab service and detox program would be most effective for recovery when paired with Naltrexone. 

That said, there are a few things to consider before taking Naltrexone or other medication-assisted treatment, such as:

  • Pregnancy or trying to become pregnant
  • Currently breastfeeding
  • Currently taking other drugs that may have negative interactions with Naltrexone

If any of the above applies to you, please inform one of our care specialists in Richmond, VA during your consultation. 

Our primary mission here at Master Center in Richmond, VA is to provide those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction with long-term results. We use a combination of drugs and other holistic services to provide a comfortable and inspiring environment for all seeking sobriety in Richmond, VA. 

The Time for Recovery is Now

Substance abuse disorder is something that affects millions of Americans every year, and Richmond, VA is no exception. Lives are lost and families are broken due to fatal overdoses, and unfortunately, the numbers keep rising. 

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse disorder, you’re not alone. 

While many people try and shake their cravings on their own, finding professional help is always the best route. 

Here at our center in Richmond, VA, we have an extensive collection of doctors, care specialists, and support groups that create a welcoming and motivating environment for anyone seeking a better life.

Together, we have over a century of experience helping those in Richmond, VA cope with a wide range of struggles. We understand the recovery process from start to finish, and we aim to provide the best detox treatment services in Richmond. 

If you or a loved one in Richmond, VA wants to start their recovery journey, contact our team today to schedule a consultation or ask about insurance information.