logo

Vivitrol: A Key Player in Opioid and Alcohol Dependence Treatment at Hopewell Health Solutions

May 05, 2025

misc image

At Hopewell Health Solutions, we prioritize innovative treatments that can significantly improve the outcomes for individuals battling addiction. Vivitrol, an injectable medication used in our MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment) programs, is one such treatment, particularly effective for those recovering from opioid and alcohol dependence. Under the care of Katherine Salvador, PA-C, our clients receive Vivitrol as part of a comprehensive treatment plan aimed at long-term recovery.

What is Vivitrol and What is it Used For?

Vivitrol is an injectable form of naltrexone that helps prevent relapse in people recovering from opioid addiction and alcohol dependence. Unlike some other forms of MAT that require daily dosing, Vivitrol is administered as a once-a-month injection. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who prefer not to take a daily medication or who struggle with adhering to a daily medication schedule.

How Does Vivitrol Work?

Vivitrol acts as an opioid antagonist. Essentially, it blocks the euphoric effects and feelings of intoxication. This is how it works for each type of addiction:

  • For Opioid Dependence: Vivitrol binds to the opioid receptors in the brain, but unlike opioid drugs, it does not trigger the release of dopamine (the chemical that produces pleasure and euphoria). This blocking effect helps users fight the craving and urge to use opioids.
  • For Alcohol Dependence: The exact mechanism of Vivitrol in treating alcohol dependence is not entirely understood, but it is believed to reduce the pleasurable effects of alcohol, which helps decrease the desire to drink.

Potential Side Effects of Vivitrol

While Vivitrol is an effective and generally safe option for treating opioid and alcohol dependence, it can have side effects. Common side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Injection site reactions (such as pain, itching, or swelling)
  • Muscle cramps
  • Toothache

More serious side effects, though less common, may include severe injection site reactions, liver damage, depression, or suicidal thoughts. Patients are monitored closely by healthcare providers like Katherine Salvador to manage any adverse effects and to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

Duration of Vivitrol Treatment

The length of treatment with Vivitrol can vary based on individual recovery needs and the specific nature of the addiction. Some people might receive Vivitrol for a few months, while others might need it for a longer period. Katherine Salvador assesses each patient's situation to determine the most appropriate duration of treatment, always aiming to provide the best support for sustained recovery.

Why Choose Vivitrol Treatment at Hopewell Health Solutions?

Choosing Vivitrol treatment at Hopewell Health Solutions means opting for a comprehensive, integrated approach to recovery. Katherine Salvador’s expertise in psychopharmacology allows her to effectively manage and integrate Vivitrol into personalized treatment plans that include behavioral therapies and counseling. This multi-faceted approach addresses not just the biological aspects of addiction but also the psychological factors, enhancing the overall treatment efficacy and supporting long-term wellness.

Vivitrol is an essential component of the medication-assisted treatment offerings at Hopewell Health Solutions, providing hope and a viable path to recovery for many struggling with opioid and alcohol dependence. With professionals like Katherine Salvador leading the treatment process, patients at Hopewell can expect compassionate, personalized care tailored to their unique recovery needs. If you or someone you love is battling addiction, consider reaching out to our team to learn more about how Vivitrol can be part of a successful recovery plan.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit us at Hopewell Health Solutions, 300 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury, Connecticut, call us at 860-946-0447, or email hhs4help@gmail.com. We’re here to help you take the first step towards a healthier, substance-free life.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that, pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes Sec. 19a-638, Hopewell Health Solutions, LLC is applying for a certificate of need to establish an outpatient behavioral health care facility for adults at 248 Flanders Road, East Lyme, with an associated capital expenditure of $10,000. Interested persons may contact the State of Connecticut, Office of Health Strategy, Attention: Steven Lazarus, 450 Capitol Ave. MS #510HS, Hartford, CT 06134 or by phone at 860.418.7001 for additional information.