Vivitrol® Treatment

Vivitrol® (naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension) is a non-addictive medication used to treat opioid and alcohol dependence and assist in relapse prevention. It works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain, reducing cravings, and preventing the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol® - combined with counseling and behavioral therapy - is one of the most effective ways to prevent relapse and support lasting recovery. Evidence-based research shows that using Vivitrol® alongside counseling provides better outcomes than either treatment alone.

MATClinics offers Vivitrol® injections across Maryland in a safe, supportive outpatient setting. Our experienced Vivitrol® doctors work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that supports long-term sobriety.
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Stages of Vivitrol® Treatment

Vivitrol® treatment at MATClinics typically follows a 3-stage process designed to ensure safety and success.

  1. Pre-treatment Assessment: Before starting Vivitrol®, our providers review your medical history and confirm that you have been opioid-free for at least 7–10 days before starting. This is essential to avoid sudden withdrawal symptoms, which can occur if Vivitrol is administered too soon after opioid use.

  2. Initiation: Once confirmed opioid-free, the first Vivitrol® shot is administered. This injection is given at a clinic where you’ll receive close medical supervision for safety and comfort.

  3. Maintenance: After the initial injection, you’ll return every 4 weeks for your next Vivitrol shot to maintain the medication's effect. These monthly injections are complemented by counseling and support services that focus on the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction. This combination of medication and therapy improves your chances for long-term recovery.

At MATClinics, we guide you through each stage of the treatment process, ensuring you receive comprehensive care to support your recovery journey.

What to Know About Vivitrol® Injections

Starting Vivitrol® is a meaningful step toward lasting recovery. Whether you're working to maintain sobriety from opioids or alcohol, it’s helpful to know what to expect before beginning treatment.

Unlike daily medications that require consistent dosing at home, Vivitrol® is a long-acting injection given just once every 4 weeks by a healthcare provider. Its extended-release formula offers steady support, helping you stay focused on recovery without the need to remember daily pills or strips.

Before your first injection, there are a few guidelines to follow based on the type of substance you're recovering from:

  • Vivitrol For Opioid Treatment: Patients must be opioid-free for at least 7–10 days before starting Vivitrol® to avoid a sudden and uncomfortable reaction called precipitated withdrawal.
  • Vivitrol For Alcohol Treatment: No detox period is required, but patients should stop drinking before starting Vivitrol® for the best results.

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Benefits of Vivitrol®

Choosing to start treatment is a big step - and Vivitrol® offers several advantages that can make the journey a little easier:

  • Non-addictive and safe: Vivitrol is not a controlled substance and carries no risk of physical dependence.
  • Once-a-month convenience: One injection every 4 weeks - no daily pills or strips to manage.
  • Helps reduce cravings: Supports people in recovery from alcohol or opioid use by reducing urges and helping prevent relapse.
  • Medication assisted treatment backed by research: Works best when combined with counseling, giving you the tools and support for long-term success.

Vivitrol® Side Effects

Vivitrol® may cause side effects. Most are mild, but it’s important to be aware of them:

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, or irritation)
  • Liver complications (rare but serious - your provider may monitor your liver health during treatment)

For a full list of possible side effects, consult your provider. They’ll walk you through what to expect and answer any questions or concerns along the way.

Is Vivitrol® Right for You?

Vivitrol® may be a good fit if you:

  • Have completed opioid detox and are looking for extra support to stay in recovery.
  • Are in recovery from alcohol use and want help managing cravings.
  • Prefer a non-addictive, long-lasting treatment option without daily medication.

Not sure if Vivitrol® is right for you? That’s okay. Our compassionate providers will talk through your history, your goals, and your concerns to help you decide if Vivitrol® - or another MAT option at MATClinics - is the best path forward. 

Find a Vivitrol® Provider Near You

MATClinics has Vivitrol® doctors in multiple locations across Maryland to help you take the next step in your recovery. Our team provides:

  • Expert medical evaluation
  • Personalized treatment plans
  • On-site monthly injections
  • Ongoing support and counseling

Ready to get started? Schedule an appointment at one of our Vivitrol clinics near you.

Medications

The medications used in MAT are powerful tools in treating substance use disorders. They work by minimizing withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings. For example, buprenorphine (the active ingredient in Suboxone®, Sublocade® & Brixadi®) acts on the same receptors in the brain as opioids. For alcohol use disorder, medications like naltrexone and acamprosate help reduce alcohol cravings, while disulfiram causes unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed, discouraging further use.

Vivitrol® +
Behavioral Therapy

The medication part of MAT includes Suboxone® or another Buprenorphine-based medication, which works by relieving the physical withdrawal symptoms and cravings. 

The therapy part of MAT works by allowing patients to address their addiction’s mental health and behavioral issues. Patients can:

  • Improve insights into behaviors that led to addiction and the problems that addiction caused
  • Learn to replace unhealthy behaviors with healthier ones
  • Work to repair relationships
  • Receive encouragement and motivation to stick to the recovery plan
  • Learn to recognize and avoid craving triggers
  • Learn how to better manage stress
  • Learn how to avoid relapse—strategies
  • Find a community that is struggling with similar issues

We Also Offer

We Accept Insurance

MATClinics currently accepts all Maryland Medicaid programs as well as Medicare Part B and all CareFirst (or BlueCross Blue Shield) plans. Learn more about what to expect and a list of the insurance programs accepted.

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