Often used in medication-assisted treatment, Vivitrol is a remarkable medication that can be used to help people with alcohol or opioid use disorders throughout their recovery, starting with withdrawal. A Vivitrol treatment program will usually combine medication with psychotherapy and other interventions to treat those who are addicted to opioids or alcohol. But what is the Vivitrol shot?  

To learn how Vivitrol helps our clients, call The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® at 828.518.6941. We help women overcome addiction and live their best lives. 

What Is the Vivitrol Shot? 

What is the Vivitrol shot? Vivitrol is an extended-release opioid receptor antagonist. That means that it lasts over time—a month, in fact. Alcohol or opioid use must be stopped prior to the first shot. For the rest of the withdrawal phase and the duration of treatment at The Willows, these shots will be one part of a constellation of treatments, including evidence-based psychotherapies, like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and experiential therapies such as equine therapy. 

Because it is considered safe for use over time, people can get the Vivitrol shot monthly for an indefinite period of time to continue curbing cravings. 

Vivitrol Shot for Alcohol Addiction 

The Vivitrol shot can also be used for people recovering from alcohol addiction. This medication works by blocking the pleasurable effects of alcohol on the brain, making it less desirable and reducing the likelihood of relapse. It is often used in combination with therapy and support groups to address both the physical and psychological aspects of alcohol addiction. 

Vivitrol Shot for Opioid Addiction 

For those recovering from opioid addiction, the Vivitrol shot works by blocking the effects of opioids on the brain. This helps to reduce cravings and prevent relapse. While it is not a cure for opioid addiction, it can be a valuable tool in a comprehensive recovery program. 

How Does Vivitrol Work? 

What does the Vivitrol shot do? The human nervous system has a range of receptors on its cells that are sensitive to the chemicals that bring them messages about how to perform certain actions. This is the way that our bodies can tell us to run when we see an oncoming car, or to eat when we’re hungry. In the case of addiction, though, these receptors can become oversensitive and cause intense cravings for drugs or alcohol. 

Vivitrol shots work by blocking these receptor sites so that substances like opioids and alcohol cannot activate them. Without this activation, the brain’s pleasure response is not triggered, and people may be less likely to experience cravings or seek out drugs or alcohol. Vivitrol works in this way for a month after each shot is administered. 

Benefits of the Vivitrol Shot 

The benefits of the Vivitrol shot for opioid or alcohol addiction include the following: 

• Reduced cravings – By tricking the brain into thinking it has an external substance in the system, cravings are reduced. The drug restores the chemical balance in the brain for ongoing health and well-being. 
• No risk of abuse or addiction – Vivitrol is the only medication approved by the FDA in treating addictions to alcohol or opioids that is not habit-forming. 
• Few, if any, side effects – The risks of Vivitrol are extremely low compared to other treatment medications. Some have reported side effects including irritation at the injection site, headaches, nausea, low appetite, and dizziness. 
• Monthly shots instead of a daily pill or doctor visits – Adhering to medication instructions is tough for many people, and those who are healing from mental health issues have an even harder time. A Vivitrol shot once every 28-30 days means remembering just one medical appointment per month. 
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) improves outcomes –When combined with psychotherapy, Vivitrol is one of two parts of a very effective treatment plan called MAT. MAT is individualized to maximize efficacy. The elimination of cravings means it’s possible to focus on therapy, where you can learn to align your behaviors with your vision of your best life. 

Reach out to the Willows today for answers to learn more about what the Vivitrol shot does. 

Contact The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® Now for Key Information about the Vivitrol Shot 

At the Willows, we treat young women who have become dependent on drugs, alcohol, or behaviors and want help breaking free. Our evidence-based treatments for opioid and alcohol addiction include the administration of Vivitrol to ease cravings with few risks. 

Reach out today to learn more. Call 828.518.6941 or reach out online. We help women heal and thrive.