Vivitrol is an intramuscular injection of extended-release naltrexone that lasts for 28 days. Vivitrol is non-addictive and there is no physical dependence. Naltrexone, a complete opioid antagonist, attaches to the opioid receptors in the brain to block alcohol, therefore the euphoria once associated with alcohol consumption is no longer there. Getting the injection on a monthly basis is proven to help reduce heavy drinking days in alcohol-dependent patients when used with chemical dependency counseling.

Vivitrol and counseling help reinforce recovery for one month at a time while you work on the psychological aspects of addiction through counseling.

We understand that once a patient is ready to begin their recovery from alcohol dependence, we must act fast. In most cases, patients are able to start the treatment process on the very day they’re asking for help. All necessary clinical assessments and office requirements for Vivitrol injections are conducted at this appointment in order to introduce medication immediately. The patient may be able to see their counselor this day whether it be in person or via tele-counseling; if not, they will leave with a scheduled first appointment. Dependent upon each individual patient case will determine when you’re asked to return for a ffollow-up but can always expect within 1-3 weeks. Each patient has their own individualized treatment plan, developed by themselves and the doctor consisting of chemical depending counseling (individual or groups), mental health services (if needed), support meeting guidance and other behavioral therapy approaches to be completed on an ongoing basis on their own time. We continue to monitor the patient’s progress basis until the patient is stable, engaging in all aspects of their treatment plan and genuinely doing well. If a patient has setbacks we move them to a higher level of care with more frequent office visits and modification of the treatment plan until they have once again stabilized. We believe each patient is a unique individual with a specific set of needs that must be met in order to have the best chance for lifelong recovery.