Can Vivitrol help with cravings? Yes! Developers created the drug as a medication to minimize the risk of relapse and cravings for those living in recovery. Cravings present one obstacle in the journey to addiction recovery. These intense, often uncontrollable urges to use substances can make the process of recovery difficult, at times feeling almost impossible. Thankfully, advances in medicine, like the introduction of Vivitrol, have provided potential solutions to this problem.
What is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol, the brand name for the active ingredient Naltrexone, is formulated as a prescription medication. It helps prevent relapses in individuals who have overcome an addiction to opioids or alcohol. This drug works in the brain, blocking the effects of opioids, and is classified as an opioid antagonist. Beyond opioids, it also suppresses the euphoria and sedation that alcohol causes.
How Vivitrol Works Against Cravings
Vivitrol operates effectively to suppress cravings by attaching itself to the opioid receptors in the brain. This connection blocks the pleasure sensations that drugs or alcohol would typically provide. It consequently decreases the desire to use these substances. The impact of Vivitrol on alcohol and opioid addiction is not merely anecdotal; it has robust scientific evidence to back it up. Numerous research studies have shown that individuals using Vivitrol have significantly fewer cravings compared to those who do not use this medication.
Benefits in the Battle Against Addiction
The benefits of using Vivitrol in addiction recovery are multi-fold. It helps to drastically decrease cravings and reduce the chances of relapse. Moreover, it assists in enhancing overall well-being, as patients can focus more on improving their lives rather than constantly battling cravings. In this manner, Vivitrol creates a conducive environment for recovery, enabling individuals to focus on the holistic aspects of healing and rehabilitation.
Considering Risks and Side Effects of Vivitrol
Despite the numerous benefits Vivitrol offers, it is essential to be aware of its potential side effects and risks. These may include nausea, headaches, dizziness, and in severe cases, liver damage. For this reason, the role of medical supervision becomes crucial when using Vivitrol. With professional monitoring, doctors can closely track these side effects, adjust dosages as necessary, and ensure the safest possible use of the medication.
One Piece of the Recovery Puzzle
Vivitrol serves as a valuable tool within a comprehensive addiction treatment plan—it is not a standalone solution. It offers individuals a fighting chance against the often overwhelming cravings, paving the way for sustained sobriety and a healthier life. However, it must be complemented with other treatment aspects such as therapy, counseling, and support groups.
Taking the Next Step
For more information, we encourage you to reach out to Landmark Recovery at 888-448-0302. Our dedicated admissions specialists can explain what treatment options are available to patients suffering from addiction. When deemed medically necessary in certain cases, Vivitrol may be used.
Choose Recovery Over Addiction
We're here 24/7 to help you get the care you need to live life on your terms, without drugs or alcohol. Talk to our recovery specialists today and learn about our integrated treatment programs.
About the Author
