Recovery isn’t about doing everything perfectly, but finding what works for you and taking it a step at a time. If you or someone you’re close to has been struggling with an addiction to opioids or alcohol, you may have heard about Vivitrol.
While this medication isn’t a cure, it can be a helpful tool in the recovery process, especially when combined with therapy and a strong treatment plan. It’s an effective maintenance and relapse-prevention tool, not a detox or withdrawal medication. If you’re considering getting the Vivitrol shot, knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and confident about your healing journey.
This guide will go over:
- What Vivitrol is and how it works
- The structure of a typical Vivitrol program
- What side effects you might experience
- Where to find Vivitrol treatment in New Jersey
If you or a loved one is living with a substance use disorder, you’re not alone. At Lifetime Recovery, our team includes both medical and mental health professionals who work together to address every aspect of your well-being. To learn more about our program options or verify your insurance coverage, give us a call. We’re here to answer your questions and offer support no matter where you’re at in your recovery.
What Is Vivitrol and How Does It Work?
Vivitrol is a long-acting form of a medication called naltrexone. It’s used to help people who are recovering from either opioid or alcohol addiction. Rather than taking a pill each day, individuals receive Vivitrol injections once a month, which helps reduce cravings and help prevent relapse.
The medication works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain—the same areas that respond when someone drinks alcohol or uses drugs. Once Vivitrol is active in the system, it blocks the effects of these substances, meaning the usual pleasurable effects no longer occur. Disrupting the brain’s reward cycle can make it easier to stay committed to recovery, especially in the early stages when temptation is strongest.
Vivitrol is only for people who have already stopped using opioids or alcohol, meaning it should only be taken once all substances are cleared from your system. A doctor will confirm you’re substance-free before clearing you to start treatment. Unlike methadone or buprenorphine, Vivitrol is not addictive and doesn’t cause withdrawal if you stop using it. This makes it a reliable option for people who don’t want to use an opioid-based medication.
What Does a Vivitrol Treatment Program Look Like?
An effective medication assisted treatment (MAT) plan includes both medical care and therapeutic support, and Vivitrol works best when it’s part of a larger support system. Here’s what a typical treatment program may look like:
Individual and Group Therapy
Therapy helps you work through the emotional and psychological aspects of addiction—whether you’re coping with trauma, stress, family challenges, or mental health disorders like anxiety or depression. You might participate in:
- Weekly one-on-one counseling
- Group sessions to build community, exchange advice, and receive encouragement
- Optional family therapy sessions
Medical Monitoring
Ongoing medical care ensures your body is adjusting well to the medication and that any side effects are managed early. This often includes:
- Monthly appointments for your dose of Vivitrol
- Regular visits to assess changes in mental health, energy levels, or physical well-being
- Adjustments to your care plan based on how you’re responding
Since the physical and mental sides of recovery are deeply connected, medical providers work closely with therapists to make sure all of your needs are addressed.
Life Skills and Aftercare Planning
Once your cravings finally fade, your next challenge is staying sober in the long run. A good program will help you plan for whatever is next, providing:
- Help with housing, legal concerns, and job placement
- Referrals to sober living environments
- Ongoing coaching to help you manage triggers and prevent relapse
These tools and resources are just as essential as the medication itself. Long-term recovery is possible, but willpower alone isn’t always enough. Having the right structure and support can help you stay on track in moments where your motivation wanes or challenges come up.
Potential Side Effects of Vivitrol
While the majority of people tolerate Vivitrol well, like any medication, it can cause side effects. The most frequent issues are related to the injection itself, and it’s common to experience mild discomfort at the location where the shot is given. This can include:
- Soreness or pain
- Itchiness or hives
- Irritation
- Swelling or redness
- Bruising
These reactions normally go away after a few days. Other possible side effects include:
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Nervousness or restlessness
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness or fainting spells
- Headache
- Muscle or joint discomfort
- Trouble sleeping or fatigue
- Toothache
- Cold-like symptoms
In rare cases, some people have a more serious allergic reaction. Those who are more sensitive to opioids, such as those who haven’t used them for a while, should exercise additional caution. Taking opioids while on Vivitrol can be extremely dangerous and may require hospitalization due to the increased risk of overdose.
Finding Vivitrol Treatment in New Jersey
Staying sober is usually the hardest part about recovering from alcohol or drug use. Vivitrol offers a way to reduce the urge to use so that you can focus on restoring your health, reaching your goals, and rebuilding your life.
At Lifetime Recovery, we offer more than medication, but a full support system. From therapy and relapse prevention to life skills training and aftercare, our programs are designed to guide you through each stage of recovery with structure, compassion, and personalized care. If you’re considering this type of treatment, we’re here to answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you decide if Vivitrol is the right next step.
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