Vivitrol Can Be a Key Piece in Your Alcohol Recovery Puzzle

More than 11% of American adults have an alcohol use disorder, a condition that includes all levels of consumption, from mild overuse to dependence and addiction. At any stage of alcohol use, you have a better chance of breaking the habit if you seek compassionate care at Clarity Medical Group.

As a family medicine physician specializing in addiction treatment and recovery, Sirisat Khalsa, MD, is uniquely qualified to provide exceptional care, customized treatment, and support for patients who need to overcome their challenges.

One of many treatments in her addiction toolbox, Vivitrol® is among the best medications for people striving to overcome alcohol dependence and stay sober. Here’s what you need to know.

Vivitrol explained

Vivitrol is a prescription medication that supports your recovery from alcohol dependence. Dependence develops as alcohol interacts with opioid receptors in your brain and affects brain chemicals (neurotransmitters).

These brain changes are responsible for alcohol’s popular effects, such as making you feel relaxed, euphoric, and disinhibited. However, these feelings can lead to physical dependence if you regularly overindulge.

The active ingredient in Vivitrol, naltrexone, helps you stay away from alcohol by blocking the receptors and limiting its ability to affect your brain. As a result, Vivitrol reduces alcohol cravings and supports sobriety.

Good candidates for Vivitrol

Vivitrol is a treatment option for everyone struggling with alcohol dependence. However, some people may not be able to take the medication.

You can’t take Vivitrol if you use opioids. You also can’t start Vivitrol treatment until you stop drinking — but don’t try to detox from alcohol on your own.

Breaking an alcohol habit is incredibly challenging. Alcohol withdrawal can also be dangerous, especially if you’re dependent and suddenly stop drinking without medical support.

In severe cases of withdrawal, you can develop delirium tremens, sudden mental and nervous system changes that cause a range of serious symptoms. You may experience hallucinations, whole-body tremors, a rapid heart rate, severe confusion, and seizures. In severe cases, delirium tremens can be life-threatening.

Several medications are available for all levels of care and stages of alcohol dependence. Some are used to prevent withdrawal symptoms, others repair the chemical imbalances in your brain, decrease cravings, or make you feel sick if you drink alcohol.

No matter your needs, the team at Clarity Medical Group offers comprehensive care. You can depend on us to safely guide your journey until you’re ready to begin Vivitrol. 

What to expect when taking Vivitrol

Vivitrol is an extended-release medicine, which means you only need to have an injection once a month. We administer Vivitrol in the office, ensuring you get the correct dose and that it’s properly injected into your muscles. 

While getting a Vivitrol injection is one part of your comprehensive care, seeking social support and counseling is an essential part of your recovery.

Depending on variables like how long you’ve struggled with alcohol and the severity of your dependence, we may prescribe other medications along with Vivitrol to enhance your results.

Vivitrol’s potential side effects

You may experience side effects from Vivitrol, but before you begin, we explain all the possible risks and symptoms you should watch for, such as:

• Nausea
• Sleepiness
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Muscle cramps
• Joint pain

Reactions at the injection site, in the gluteal muscles, are also common. While most people have tenderness, pain, redness, swelling, bumps, and thickened skin, some may develop an abscess, cellulitis, or tissue death.

Vivitrol may cause serious health concerns like depression, liver damage, and a severe allergic reaction. Using opioids when you’re taking Vivitrol can result in an accidental opioid overdose.

There are many pieces to the alcohol recovery puzzle, and, if it’s right for you, Vivitrol can be a key part of your treatment plan. We take your health and safety seriously and support you through every step to help you break your dependence and prevent a relapse.

Whether you’re worried about the amount of alcohol you drink or you know you’ve developed a dependence, Clarity Medical Group is here to help. Take the first step toward a healthy, sober life by calling the office or booking online.