The Coleman Institute Blog

For those struggling with addiction, achieving and maintaining recovery can be challenging. Cravings and the risk of relapse often pose significant hurdles in sobriety, making it important to explore evidence-based treatment options. Naltrexone Therapy, including its extended-release form, Vivitrol, has become a powerful tool in preventing relapse and supporting wellness.

Understanding Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies to treat Substance Use Disorder (SUD). By alleviating withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings, this approach helps individuals stay engaged in recovery while addressing the underlying psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction.

At The Coleman Institute, we specialize in MAT, offering Naltrexone Therapy as a safe and effective option for people recovering from opioid and alcohol use disorders. Unlike other MAT options, such as methadone or buprenorphine, Naltrexone is non-addictive. It does not produce physical dependence, making it a preferred choice for many seeking long-term recovery.

What is Naltrexone Therapy?

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain; this prevents the euphoric, sedative effects of substances like heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioids. For alcohol use disorder, Naltrexone reduces cravings and diminishes the pleasurable effects of drinking, supporting abstinence and long-term sobriety.

Key benefits of Naltrexone Therapy

• Relapse prevention by blocking the effects of opioids and reducing alcohol cravings
• No risk of dependence or withdrawal symptoms
• Long-term support for individuals committed to recovery
• Flexible administration options, including oral Naltrexone, implants, and Vivitrol injections

To learn more about how The Coleman Institute uses Naltrexone Therapy for addiction recovery, visit our Naltrexone Therapy page.

Vivitrol - Extended-Release Naltrexone

Vivitrol is an extended-release injectable form of Naltrexone that provides one month of continuous medication with a single dose. This eliminates the need for daily medication adherence, reducing the risk of missed doses that could lead to relapse.

Key benefits of Vivitrol

• Long-lasting protection against cravings and relapse
• Convenience, only one injection per month
• No risk of dependence or withdrawal symptoms
• Effective for both opioid and alcohol use disorders
• Reduces the risk of overdose by blocking opioid effects

To start Vivitrol for opioid use disorder, you must complete detoxification from opioids to avoid precipitated withdrawal. For alcohol use disorder, Vivitrol can be initiated once alcohol detoxification is finished.

Integrating Naltrexone Therapy into Recovery

At The Coleman Institute, we incorporate Naltrexone Therapy into our treatment approach, which includes -

• Accelerated Outpatient Detox – A medically supervised outpatient detoxification program designed to help individuals detox safely and effectively in a shorter timeframe than traditional methods
• Naltrexone Therapy and Vivitrol Injections – Options for extended protection against relapse
• Medical Monitoring – Ongoing assessments to ensure safety and efficiency of treatment
• Compassionate Support – Case management and aftercare services to support lasting sobriety

How Naltrexone Therapy Works for Different Substance Use Disorders

Naltrexone Therapy is an effective treatment for both opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). By working on the brain’s reward system, Naltrexone helps individuals break the cycle of addiction and focus on rebuilding their lives.

• Opioid Use Disorder - Blocks the euphoric effects of opioids, reducing the incentive to use; Helps prevent relapse and provides long-term support for individuals in recovery.
• Alcohol Use Disorder - Reduces the pleasurable effects of alcohol consumption, decreases cravings, and supports abstinence; Helps individuals maintain sobriety and avoid relapse.

Is Naltrexone Therapy Right for You?

Naltrexone and Vivitrol are not one-size-fits-all treatments. They are best suited for individuals who -

• Have completed opioid detox or alcohol detox
• Are committed to long-term sobriety
• Do not have contraindications, such as severe liver disease
• Are looking for a non-addictive MAT option
• Want a long-term solution to prevent cravings and relapse

If you or a loved one is exploring treatment options for substance use disorders, Naltrexone Therapy may be a life-changing step toward lasting recovery.

Learn More About Naltrexone Therapy in Richmond, VA

Choosing the right treatment is an important step in the recovery process. If you’re considering Naltrexone Therapy or Vivitrol, our team at The Coleman Institute is here to help. The Coleman Institute has served the Richmond, Virginia, community since 1998, changing thousands of lives for the past quarter of a century.

Learn more about our approach to Naltrexone Therapy or contact us today to speak with a specialist about your treatment options.

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