Medically-Assisted Treatment with Vivitrol

As an opioid antagonist, Vivitrol binds to the same receptors in the brain as opioid drugs, without triggering the excessive dopamine release (“high”) that accompanies drug use. Because antagonists are non-pleasure producing, there is no potential for abuse and there are no withdrawal symptoms.

Opioid and alcohol dependence are chronic, relapsing brain diseases that can be devastating both psychologically and physically. While counseling can help patients work through the psychological aspects of dependence, medication may help address the physical changes in the brain.

Patients who are able to abstain from alcohol in an outpatient setting prior to Vivitrol treatment, who are not currently taking any opioids or drinking alcohol, who are not in acute opioid withdrawal, and who have not failed the naloxone challenge test or have a positive urine screen for opioids.

The Vivitrol Co-pay Savings Program can help reduce financial barriers to Vivitrol therapy.

There are no income requirements to be eligible, and 90% of insured patients using the program had no out-of-pocket expenses for Vivitrol.

The program allows for $0 co-pay, for up to $500/month for eligible patients.

After opioid detoxification, patients are likely to have a reduced tolerance to opioids. Vivitrol blocks the effects of opioids for approximately 28 days after administration. As the medication wanes and eventually dissipates completely, use of previously tolerated doses of opioids could result in potentially life-threatening opioid intoxication.

Cases of opioid overdose with fatal outcomes have been reported in patients who used opioids at the end of a dosing interval, after missing a scheduled dose, or after discontinuing treatment.

Any attempt by a patient to overcome Vivitrol’s effects by taking more opioids may lead to fatal overdose.