What Is Vivitrol?

What Is Vivitrol?

Vivitrol is a long-acting, prescription medication approved by the FDA to treat alcohol dependence and prevent relapse in individuals recovering from alcohol and opioid use disorders.

The medication contains naltrexone, an opioid antagonist that works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain. When these receptors are blocked, opioids cannot produce their usual euphoric or sedating effects. Therefore, the person doesn’t feel the pleasurable effects of drinking alcohol or using opioids.

Vivitrol is typically administered as a once-monthly intramuscular injection as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program. This monthly injection provides consistent support without the need for daily medication.

As a result, the extended-release format helps individuals remain focused on therapy, lifestyle changes, and recovery goals without the burden of daily dosing or the temptation to skip medication during stressful periods.

What Is Vivitrol Used For?

Vivitrol is used to support individuals in recovery from opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder after they’ve completed a detox program.

It is not a detox medication, but rather a relapse prevention tool that helps stabilize early recovery and reduce cravings. By limiting the rewarding effects of substances, Vivitrol can help break patterns of use.

It is important to note that Vivitrol is most effective when combined with counseling, behavioral therapies, and ongoing clinical support. This integrated approach allows individuals to address both the biological and psychological aspects of addiction. This, therefore, improves engagement in treatment and long-term recovery outcomes.

Vivitrol for Opioids

For opioid use disorder, Vivitrol works by completely blocking opioid receptors in the brain.

If opioids are used while Vivitrol is active, the individual will not experience the typical effects associated with opioid use. This blocking mechanism significantly reduces the motivation to relapse and lowers the risk of overdose during recovery.

Vivitrol is often beneficial for individuals transitioning from detox into outpatient or structured treatment programs. It is also a valuable option for those who want a non-opioid medication approach or who have experienced repeated relapses in the past. 

Vivitrol for Alcohol

For alcohol use disorder, Vivitrol helps reduce cravings and decreases the sense of reward associated with drinking.

While it does not block alcohol entirely, it makes drinking less reinforcing, which can help individuals resist urges and avoid returning to problematic patterns. This effect is particularly helpful during early sobriety, when cravings and emotional triggers are often strongest.

By stabilizing cravings, Vivitrol allows individuals to focus more fully on therapy, coping skill development, and rebuilding daily routines that support long-term sobriety.

Atlanta, Georgia Treatment Programs That Offer Vivitrol

North Atlanta Behavioral Health offers several levels of care that allow individuals to receive Vivitrol support while participating in structured, recovery-focused treatment. These programs provide flexibility, accountability, and clinical guidance to support lasting progress.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Our partial hospitalization program (PHP) offers intensive treatment with multiple hours of therapy and psychiatric support five days per week, allowing individuals to receive a high level of care while returning home or to sober living in the evenings.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides structured treatment several days per week, supporting continued recovery while individuals balance work, family responsibilities, or other daily commitments.

Outpatient Program (OP)

Our outpatient program (OP) offers ongoing therapeutic support through regularly scheduled sessions, making it well-suited for individuals who have completed higher levels of care or need continued guidance for relapse prevention and emotional stability.

Sober Living

Sober living provides a supportive, substance-free living environment that promotes accountability, peer connection, and healthy routines while individuals continue treatment and strengthen recovery skills.

How Long Does Vivitrol Last?

Each Vivitrol injection is designed to remain effective for approximately 28 to 30 days.

During this time, the medication maintains steady levels in the body. This allows it to continuously block opioid receptors and helps reduce cravings.

Monthly injections help ensure consistent protection during early recovery, when relapse risk can be higher. Regular follow-up appointments allow providers to monitor progress, address concerns, and determine how long Vivitrol should remain part of the treatment plan.

Potential Side Effects of Vivitrol

Vivitrol is generally well-tolerated, though some individuals may experience side effects, such as:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Sleep disturbances
• Mild discomfort at the injection site

These symptoms are often temporary and decrease with continued use.

Because Vivitrol can cause sudden withdrawal if opioids are present in the body, individuals must be fully opioid-free before receiving the injection. Overall, medical evaluation and supervision are essential to ensure safety and reduce the risk of complications.

Why North Atlanta Behavioral Health?

Choosing the right provider is an important part of recovery. North Atlanta Behavioral Health offers dynamic care that addresses the full scope of addiction and recovery needs.

Some highlights of our facility are outlined below:

• Individualized treatment plans that integrate Vivitrol with therapy and behavioral health services
• Licensed medical and clinical professionals experienced in addiction treatment
• Multiple levels of care to support recovery from early stabilization through long-term maintenance
• Focus on relapse prevention, emotional wellness, and sustainable lifestyle change
• Supportive environment that encourages accountability, growth, and long-term success

Furthermore, we offer an extensive suite of proven therapies and holistic healing strategies. These include:

• Individual Therapy
• Group Therapy
• Psychiatry Services
• Red Light Therapy
• Family Therapy
• Holistic Therapy

Our Medical Team

We are proud to have a highly qualified, multidisciplinary medical team dedicated to safety, professionalism, and individualized care.

Stephen Yost

Medical Director