INTRAVENOUS INJECTION OF ALCOHOL BY DRUG INJECTORS: REPORT OF THREE CASES Alcohol and Alcoholism

Perhaps depot preparations of naltrexone could be combined with other medications to maximize efficacy, pending the results of future investigations. Extension of the current knowledge regarding long-acting naltrexone formulations will help practitioners to prescribe the best formulation for treating alcohol-dependent individuals. For instance, injections must be administered properly to decrease the possibility of local site reactions, which could, in turn, diminish compliance. Moreover, the number of physicians or nurses might have to be increased so that providers are on hand to administer the injections and to assess and triage any medical complications that may occur (Johnson 2006). The marked analgesic response to morphine in the hot-plate paradigm in rats was blocked by Vivitrex® (50 mg/kg) from the first day of injection until 4 weeks later. An injection of Vivitrex® 5 weeks after the first injection led to suppression of morphine analgesia for another 4 weeks (Bartus et al 2003).

Trying to overcome this block is very dangerous and may cause serious injury, loss of consciousness, and death. Make sure you completely understand and 5 Tips to Consider When Choosing a Sober Living House accept the risks and benefits of using this medication. This medication is also used to prevent relapse to opioid abuse, after opioid detoxification.

Important safety information about VIVITROL

Part of our inpatient rehab program includes creating an individualized treatment program. If you meet the criteria, your therapy team may suggest Vivitrol shots. However, to qualify for these injections you must have ongoing psychiatric counseling.

This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use. It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule. Lab and/or medical tests (such as liver function) should be done while you are using this medication. Before having surgery or any medical/dental treatment, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication.

Vivitrol Therapy at AspenRidge Recovery

For instance, some interactions can interfere with how well a drug works. Other interactions can increase the number of side effects or make them more severe. These side effects differ based on the condition the drugs are used to treat.

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using naltrexone and each time you get a refill. If you need help with your substance use disorder, we are here to help you build your confidence and momentum towards the future you want. We provide treatment services for adults with alcohol, opioid, and other substance use disorders. We are currently located in Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and Washington. If you are seeking help with your loved one’s addiction, contact us today or complete our quick contact form below, to speak with an addiction treatment specialist. Twenty-five of the 32 participants completed all their study visits, and 22 (69%) continued taking naltrexone after the 12 weeks.

Side effects and risks

Some people have contracted a type of pneumonia caused by an allergic reaction to Vivitrol. Vivitrol is most effective when used with other evidence-based treatment programs, mental health counseling, and support groups. For the treatment of alcohol use disorder, naltrexone was originally prescribed as a daily pill.

Therefore, this medication helps decrease heavy drinking habits till individuals achieve sobriety. All forms of naltrexone work to stop the euphoria that alcohol and opioids can cause. While VIVITROL® prevents endorphins from binding opioid receptors in people who consume alcohol, it also blocks opioid drugs from binding to opioid receptors in the brain. Not only can this make treatment more effective, but it can also help with relapse. Before beginning VIVITROL®, a person must be opioid-free for at least 7 to 14 days to avoid sudden opioid withdrawal.