Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an effective tool in helping combat chronic relapse, particularly for opioid and alcohol addictions. Vivitrol is a brand name for naltrexone, commonly used in MAT. Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist, meaning that it blocks the effects of opioids in the brain. Vivitrol also helps reduce cravings for alcohol.
At Ashwood Recovery, we recognize the importance of MAT in helping patients achieve long-term recovery. However, MAT is only appropriate for some. Our intake specialists will help determine if MAT is suitable for you. If you are interested in finding Vivitrol treatment in Boise, ID, contact Ashwood Recovery today. Reach out online or call 888.341.3607 to learn about our Vivitrol treatment center in Boise.
What Are the Benefits of Vivitrol Treatment?
The opioid epidemic continues to wreak havoc throughout our nation, and Boise is not immune to it. Boise is recognized as one of the best mid-size cities in the U.S. because of its low cost of living, robust arts and culture scene, and access to outdoor activities. Still, because of its location, Boise is also considered a hotbed of drug trafficking activity. Despite Idaho being 39th in the nation for population, it ranks fifth for painkiller misuse among those 12 and older.1
Ashwood Recovery is committed to helping combat the opioid epidemic and other substance abuse disorders in Boise and beyond. We use Vivitrol treatment as one component of comprehensive outpatient addiction treatment. The main benefit of Vivitrol treatment in Boise is helping patients maintain their sobriety. Other benefits include the following:
- Reduced cravings – Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors in the brain, reducing craving for alcohol and opioids, ultimately reducing substance use.
- No risk of dependence – Unlike some medications used in MAT, Vivitrol is not addictive and does not have the potential for abuse.
- Single-agent therapy – Vivitrol is a standalone medication that eliminates the need for daily administration of multiple medications, simplifying the treatment regimen.
- Monthly administration – Vivitrol is administered via a monthly injection, making it easier for patients who might struggle with daily medication adherence.
- Reduces pleasure from substance use – Vivitrol reduces the pleasurable sensations associated with substance use, thereby reducing the risk of relapse.
Because Vivitrol is a monthly injection that must be administered by a treatment professional, it encourages long-term participation in outpatient treatment, further reducing the risk of relapse.
Are There Downsides to Vivitrol Treatment?
No treatment is perfect, and all medications have potential side effects. The most significant downfall of Vivitrol treatment is its limited efficacy, meaning that individual responses can vary, making it not as effective for everyone.
Other potential downsides include the following:
- Cost – Vivitrol may be more expensive than other medications used in MAT, which can be a barrier to treatment for some.
- Injection site reactions – Some patients may experience mild to moderate reactions, such as redness, pain, or swelling.
- Liver function monitoring – The active ingredient in Vivitrol (Naltrexone) can impact liver functioning, requiring regular monitoring of liver enzymes.
- Interaction with pain medications – Since Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors, its use can complicate pain management for individuals who become injured or need surgery.
- Commitment to treatment – With monthly administration, Vivitrol requires a commitment to treatment because missed doses can reduce effectiveness.
Before beginning Vivitrol treatment, patients must be opioid-free for a specified period, which may be too challenging for some, especially individuals with a history of severe addiction or chronic relapse.
Call Ashwood Recovery and Ask About Our Vivitrol Treatment Center in Boise, ID
Known as The City of Trees, Boise is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, colleges and universities, a thriving arts and cultural scene, year-round outdoor activities, and top-rated outpatient treatment at Ashwood Recovery. Contact our team online or call 888.341.3607 today to speak with an intake specialist to see if Vivitrol treatment in Boise, ID, is right for you or your loved one.
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