You can get a Vivitrol shot as part of a Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) program. It is a prescription medication that is often used as one component of a comprehensive treatment program.
Vivitrol is an injectable form of naltrexone that blocks opioid receptors in the brain. It is an FDA approved, effective treatment for both opioid and alcohol dependence.[1]
Vivitrol needs to be administered once opioids and/or alcohol have already processed out of the body during detox. It can help to prevent relapse and support long-term recovery.
Where Are Vivitrol Shots Given?
There are several options to help you find a treatment provider that can administer a Vivitrol shot. You will need a prescription from a licensed health care provider to receive Vivitrol.
Again, the medication is often administered through a drug or alcohol addiction treatment provider. However, some primary care doctors or internists also prescribe Vivitrol.
When seeking Vivitrol, the first thing to do is talk to your health care provider to determine if it is right for you. They can often administer it themselves in their office (it does not require a special license unlike suboxone or methadone). If not, they can likely refer you to a specialist that does prescribe and administer it.
To find a provider near you, use the following options:
- Check the SAMHSA Opioid Treatment Program Directory by selecting your state from the dropdown menu and looking through the options to find MAT providers offering Vivitrol.[2]
- You can also find a behavioral health services treatment provider through SAMHSA’s treatment locator by inputting your zip code and the type of treatment desired.[3]
- Another option for finding a Vivitrol provider directly is through Vivitrol site directly where health care professionals can register as providers. You can use your location or enter your location to find providers near you.[4]
How Is It Administered?
Vivitrol is an injectable extended-release formulation of naltrexone that can be administered to prevent opioid relapse when taken at least 7 to 10 days after the last dose of an opioid drug.
It is administered through an intramuscular (IM) injection in the buttocks once every four weeks in a dosage of 380 mg.[5]
As an injectable naltrexone suspension, Vivitrol remains active in the bloodstream for a month to help prevent relapse for the treatment of alcohol use disorder and/or opioid use disorder.
While it is very effective at supporting recovery and preventing relapse, it isn’t enough on its own. It should be used as part of a whole addiction treatment program that includes therapy and counseling. Without additional treatment, relapse is likely down the road. Talk to your treatment team if Vivitrol might be a viable option for you in your recovery.
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