We believe effective treatment begins with trusted, evidence-based care. That’s why we offer Vivitrol, a long-acting, FDA-approved medication to support recovery from opioid or alcohol dependence.
Vivitrol is a non-addictive, once-a-month option that helps reduce the risk of relapse. Whether you’re starting medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for the first time or exploring a new approach, our team is here to guide you with care, expertise, and understanding.
Understanding Vivitrol: what it is and how it works
What is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is a monthly injectable form of naltrexone, a medication used to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders. Instead of taking a pill every day, Vivitrol is given by a healthcare provider once a month, making it a convenient option for ongoing support.
How Vivitrol treats opioid and alcohol dependence
Vivitrol works by blocking the high from opioids and alcohol. It attaches to the same brain receptors but doesn’t activate them, which helps curb cravings and lowers the chance of relapse. This allows you to focus fully on therapy and other treatments.
Since Vivitrol isn’t an opioid and isn’t addictive, there’s no risk of physical dependence. It’s a great option for people looking for a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) plan that supports abstinence.
What is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is a monthly injectable form of naltrexone, a medication used to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders. Instead of taking a pill every day, Vivitrol is given by a healthcare provider once a month, making it a convenient option for ongoing support.
How Vivitrol treats opioid and alcohol dependence
Vivitrol works by blocking the high from opioids and alcohol. It attaches to the same brain receptors but doesn’t activate them, which helps curb cravings and lowers the chance of relapse. This allows you to focus fully on therapy and other treatments.
Since Vivitrol isn’t an opioid and isn’t addictive, there’s no risk of physical dependence. It’s a great option for people looking for a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) plan that supports abstinence.
FDA approval and medical expertise behind Vivitrol
Vivitrol got FDA approval in 2006 for treating alcohol dependence and in 2010 for opioid dependence. It’s considered safe when used correctly with a doctor’s guidance. However, before starting Vivitrol, you need to be free of opioids for 7–10 days to avoid sudden withdrawal symptoms.
Benefits of Vivitrol in addiction recovery
Long-acting injectable medication for relapse prevention
Stopping relapse is a key focus of Vivitrol treatment. With once-a-month dosing and its ability to block the effects of opioids and alcohol, Vivitrol provides an extra layer of support while you work on rebuilding your life. Our program includes:
- Customized relapse prevention plans
- Ongoing support and case management
- Involvement and support for your family
- Coordination for aftercare to ensure lasting success
By combining Vivitrol's medical benefits with tailored relapse prevention strategies, we lay the groundwork for lasting recovery. Our team is here to offer caring support and practical tools to help you take back control. Together, we’ll help you build a life free from addiction.
Comparison: Vivitrol vs suboxone
Feature
Vivitrol
Suboxone
Active Ingredient
Naltrexone
Buprenorphine + Naloxone
Dependence Risk
None
Low
Form
Monthly injection
Daily sublingual film
When It's Used
Abstinence-based MAT
Maintenance-based MAT
While both medications are effective, Vivitrol may be better for individuals who want a non-opioid MAT approach or prefer less frequent dosing.
Evidence-based effectiveness of Vivitrol therapy
Research shows that Vivitrol, when paired with counseling and structured support, can greatly lower the chances of opioid relapse. Many patients say it helps them stick to therapy and feel more in control of their recovery journey.
Results may differ for everyone, but at Spring Grove Recovery, Vivitrol has made a big difference for many clients.
Is Vivitrol right for your recovery journey?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) options for substance abuse
Overview of MAT for opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder
Vivitrol treatment is designed to support your recovery journey. Here’s how our program works:
Step 1: Clinical Assessment
We start with a thorough evaluation to make sure Vivitrol is the right fit for you.
Step 2: Detox
Once you’ve completed detox and are opioid-free, you’ll receive your first intramuscular injection of Vivitrol.
Step 3: Ongoing Injections
Injections are given every 28 to 30 days in a clinical setting, with 24/7 medical support to ensure your safety.
Step 4: Comprehensive Support
Along with your injections, we provide:
- Therapy to address the root causes of addiction.
- Regular check-ins to track your progress.
- Care coordination to support every step of your recovery.
- Close monitoring to manage any side effects effectively.
Role of naltrexone therapy in MAT
Naltrexone is a leading therapy in both alcohol and opioid addiction treatment. Cravings can make it seem like sticking to treatment is impossible, but Vivitrol reduces them. It also:
- Provides non-habit-forming recovery support.
- Improves retention in treatment programs.
- Reduces alcohol cravings.
- Decreases the number of heavy drinking days.
- Blocks the rewarding effects of opioids or alcohol.
When combined with therapy, lifestyle changes, and a solid support system, Vivitrol can be a valuable part of a comprehensive recovery plan. Our mission is to help you achieve lasting sobriety with the right tools and care.
Integrating Vivitrol with counseling and support groups
Medication isn’t the whole answer. That’s why at Spring Grove Recovery, we pair Vivitrol treatment with:
- One-on-one and group therapy
- Care that addresses past trauma
- Planning to prevent relapse
- Life skills coaching
This holistic approach gives clients the tools to handle challenges and build emotional resilience, while Vivitrol offers essential medical support.
Safety, side effects, and considerations of Vivitrol treatment
Accessing Vivitrol treatment and support services
Detoxification and outpatient addiction treatment options
Vivitrol can't be used by people who are actively using or withdrawing from opioids. It's also safer to start after you quit drinking. We offer medical detox programs at our Colorado Springs treatment center to help you get stable before starting Vivitrol. Our team will provide around-the-clock medical supervision to ensure a safe and comfortable withdrawal process.
Once you're stable, we can work with you to create an individualized plan that may include inpatient treatment or referrals to outpatient treatment. Supporting your MAT plan with therapy, support groups, and community resources makes sure that you have all the tools you need to stick to your recovery journey.
Finding qualified providers for Vivitrol therapy
When you're looking for Vivitrol therapy, find a licensed, accredited, and experienced provider. Spring Grove Recovery is accredited by the Joint Commission and staffed by an experienced team of licensed professionals dedicated to providing compassionate and effective treatment.
You can start by checking with your insurance company to see which providers are covered under your plan. We accept all Colorado Medicaid plans and work with many commercial insurance providers to make life-saving care accessible.
Support groups and ongoing addiction counseling
Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offer peer support and a safe space for individuals in recovery to share their experiences and struggles. These groups can provide valuable insight, advice, and accountability while building a supportive community.
Ongoing addiction counseling can also help individuals maintain their sobriety by addressing underlying issues, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and providing continued guidance on navigating life in recovery. We offer individual and group therapy during residential treatment and will help you coordinate ongoing counseling services after completion of the program.
Enhancing recovery with evidence-based therapies
Importance of transparency and credibility in addiction treatment
There are so many options out there when you need support. As you begin your search, make sure that you're an active part of your treatment and get clear answers when you ask questions. Coming to Spring Grove Recovery gives you a change to work with compassionate professionals with years of experience. We'll always work with you to make the care plan that fits your needs, based on therapies that actually work.
Combining Vivitrol with comprehensive addiction recovery plans
We're not just a Vivitrol clinic. We're a comprehensive addiction treatment program. From detox through aftercare, you'll get the attention and services you need to start walking a new path. Vivitrol is just one tool we use for alcohol and opioid use disorders, and is never the only one. We also provide:
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- Connections to support groups
- Nutrition and hydration support
- 24/7 monitoring
- A safe space to recover
- Coping, life, and relapse prevention skills
- Coordination with continued care and community resources
Whether it's your first time reaching out or you're coming back to treatment after a setback, we're ready to provide the support you need—right here in the Rockies.
Frequently asked questions about Vivitrol treatment
Vivitrol is an extended-release injection of naltrexone, approved by the FDA to help with opioid and alcohol addiction. It works by blocking their effects on the brain.
It attaches to opioid receptors but doesn’t activate them, helping to curb cravings and block the highs from alcohol and opioids.
Yes, as long as it’s used correctly. Make sure you haven’t taken any opioids for 7–10 days before your first injection to prevent withdrawal.
Headaches, nausea, tiredness, and soreness where you got the shot are pretty common side effects. Serious reactions are rare and are closely watched by medical professionals.
The length of treatment can vary. A lot of people stay on Vivitrol for 6–12 months or more, depending on their recovery goals.
No, you need to fully detox from opioids and alcohol before starting Vivitrol, or you could experience serious withdrawal symptoms.
Vivitrol is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicaid. Our admissions team can check your coverage for you.
Give us a call at Spring Grove Recovery or fill out our online form. We’ll help you with detox (if needed), a clinical evaluation, and your first Vivitrol shot.
Start Vivitrol treatment at Spring Grove Recovery today
If you’re considering Vivitrol as part of your recovery journey from opioid or alcohol addiction, Spring Grove Recovery is here to help. Our experienced team provides safe, personalized care in a welcoming, medically supervised space near Colorado Springs.
With a combination of medication expertise and genuine compassion, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Call us today at 719.415.3460 or fill out our quick online contact form to get started. Recovery is possible—let’s take the next step together.
