Navigation:
- Overview
- What Is Vivitrol?
- How Does Vivitrol Work?
- Is Vivitrol Safe?
- How Do I Find Out If I’m a Candidate for Vivitrol
- Does Insurance Cover Vivitrol?
- How to Find a Vitriol Provider in Your Area
Overview
Medication-assisted treatment has emerged as a prime resource in the fight against opioid use disorder. It involves the use of select medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help those struggling with heroin and prescription opioid dependence curtail their cravings and withdrawal symptoms by blocking the effects of opioids on the central nervous system. This helps regulate the flow of dopamine, allowing patients to gradually taper off heroin or prescription painkillers. Recently, certain medications approved for opioid use disorder have also been proven effective for problematic drinking and alcohol addiction. Among these medications is a monthly injectable form of naltrexone called Vivitrol®.
What Is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol® is a monthly dose of slow-acting naltrexone. It is administered by injection by an authorized medical professional and used to help people recovering from opioid use disorder as part of an approved opioid treatment program (OTP), alongside counseling and therapy. It’s also used to treat alcohol use disorder.
Vivitrol is one of a select few medications approved by the FDA to treat opioid use disorder, along with methadone and buprenorphine. If you or your loved one are struggling with heroin or prescription opioids, Vivitrol or another form of medication-assisted treatment may be a viable option to help you reclaim your health and quality of life. There are Vivitrol drug rehab centers in your area that can help you transition into recovery.
Unlike other MAT drugs, such as Suboxone (buprenorphine and naloxone), which require daily use, Vivitrol is intended for once-a-month administration, which significantly reduces the possibility of diversion or abuse.
How Does Vivitrol Work?
Simply put, Vivitrol works by controlling cravings and withdrawal symptoms that can lead to relapse. The monthly injection works by blocking the opioid receptors in the brain that lead to the euphoric feeling caused by opioid consumption. The same is true for the effects associated with alcohol use. It is a non-addictive, slow-acting substance that is different from buprenorphine and methadone because patients only have to take it once per month.
The recommended monthly dosage of the drug, according to FDA guidelines, is 380 mg. To be eligible for the drug, patients must undergo a physical examination and allergy test, verify that their liver can handle the drug, and maintain abstinence from opioids for seven to 14 days (toxicology screening results required).
Is Vivitrol Safe?
While Vivitrol is generally considered safe when administered properly by an experienced and credentialed medical professional, it does carry risks similar to other MAT drugs. For example, it can cause sudden and intense opioid withdrawal symptoms if taken before the detox process is complete, which generally takes one to two weeks, as mentioned above. Some of the more common side effects of Vivitrol include:
- Pain, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site
- Nausea, headache, or dizziness
- Depressed mood or depressed feelings
- Allergic pneumonia or severe allergic reactions
If you experience these or any other symptoms related to your Vivitrol use, talk to your doctor immediately. They will be able to either adjust your dose or suggest additional ways to manage your symptoms.
How Do I Find Out If I’m a Candidate for Vivitrol?
The process of finding out if you’re eligible for Vivitrol starts with an evaluation from a medical professional, either at your drug rehab center or your own doctor. They will assess your clinical history and determine if this course of treatment is right for you. Since it is not an opioid-based medication like buprenorphine or methadone, any doctor can prescribe Vivitrol.
Does Insurance Cover Vivitrol?
Yes, most major health insurance plans cover Vivitrol, including commercial insurance, Medicaid (in all 50 states), and Medicare. However, out-of-pocket costs depend on your specific plan, and insurers often require prior authorization, a copay, or fulfillment of specific deductibles before approving coverage. Talk to your insurance provider or an admissions representative at the facility you’re considering to fully understand your coverage options. You can also verify your specific benefits using the Vivitrol Insurance Verification Tool.
How to Find a Vivitrol Provider in Your Area
It’s important to realize that Vivitrol is not meant to be a substitute for any other elements of treatment and should only be administered alongside behavioral rehab as part of a comprehensive program.
The quickest and most effective way to find a Vivitrol drug rehab center in your area is to contact the facilities you or your loved one are considering and inquire about their medication-assisted treatment resources. An admissions representative will be able to answer all of your questions and also provide a complete insurance verification regarding your scope of coverage and what portion of your treatment you will have to pay for out of pocket.
You can also find an injection administrator near you using the Official VIVITROL Provider Locator or call 1-800-VIVITROL for assistance. Get the help you need today.
