Vivitrol® (monthly injectable naltrexone) has emerged as a viable option for medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction. Vivitrol is a non-narcotic, non-addictive form of the drug naltrexone that works by blocking opioid molecules from binding to receptors in the brain that are responsible for the development of addiction and dependency. Vivitrol is also often used to treat alcohol addiction.

The blocking of opioids from these receptors helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Vivitrol poses a significantly reduced risk of addiction compared to other opioid maintenance therapy drugs, such as Suboxone® (buprenorphine and naloxone) and methadone. Data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse indicates that monthly Vivitrol injections can be just as effective as a daily buprenorphine pill. If you or someone you care about are one of the many Floridians struggling with illicit or prescription opioid abuse, here are some important things you should know about finding a Vivitrol provider in Florida.

Am I Eligible for Vivitrol?

While it’s an effective means of treating opioid use disorder, Vivitrol may not work for everyone. In order to be eligible for treatment, you or your loved one must:

Be Free of Opioids in Your System after a Seven to 14-Day Detox
Not Experiencing Significant Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
Have Your Dosage Prepared and Prescribed by A Qualified Physician
Pass the Naloxone (Narcan®) Challenge Test or Have a Negative Urine Screen for Opioids
Undergo Behavioral Rehab and Therapy

Vivitrol therapy is not meant to replace any aspect of treatment and should occur alongside detox, rehab, and ongoing therapy for opioid addiction. It is not advisable for those with hypersensitivity to naltrexone, polylactide-co-glycolide (PLG), carboxymethylcellulose, or any other components of the diluent. Some of the side effects and withdrawal symptoms of Vivitrol include, but are not limited to:

Tiredness
Headache and Migraine
Dizziness and Nausea
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Decreased Appetite
Joint and Muscle Pain and Cramping
Cold and Flu Symptoms
Insomnia and Sleep Issues
Toothache

Talk to your healthcare provider about any new or worsening symptoms you experience and if symptoms linger for longer than you think they should. Most Vivitrol programs last at least one year and may be extended, depending on progress and ongoing care needs.

How Do I Start Vivitrol Therapy in Florida?

Finding a Vivitrol provider in Florida starts by getting a prescription and a full examination from a doctor, whether it’s your primary care physician or the doctor at your addiction treatment center. Vivitrol offers a directory of local Florida Vivitrol providers in Fort Lauderdale and throughout the rest of the state to facilitate access. It’s helpful to get your Vivitrol injection at a facility where a healthcare provider is present so you can talk to them about any changes or symptoms you may be experiencing. Talking to your doctor, or at least a physician’s assistant whenever possible, will help you stay informed and be better engaged in your care journey. One of the primary benefits of Vivitrol is that, unlike opioid agonist therapies, it does not have dependency potential and thus requires no tapering.

Do Florida Vivitrol Providers Take Insurance?

Your health insurance plan will often cover at least part of your Vivitrol treatment, but the scope of coverage is dependent on your specific care plan and tier. Vivitrol is typically covered by Medicaid, but eligibility requirements may vary from state to state. Contact your doctor or prospective treatment provider to get a full picture of your insurance coverage options, and to find out if your plan covers therapy. The Vivitrol Co-pay Savings Program covers up to $500/month of co-pay or deductible expenses for eligible patients with a VIVITROL prescription.

Florida Vivitrol Treatment Providers at Recovery Unplugged

Recovery Unplugged is a trusted and reputable Vivitrol provider in Florida, with locations in Fort Lauderdale and Lake Worth. Our treatment centers are staffed with experienced and qualified doctors and nurses who are trained to monitor your withdrawal symptoms and case history and your corresponding eligibility for Vivitrol therapy. Recovery Unplugged is a full-service treatment provider offering a comprehensive continuum of care with:

Medically Supervised Detox – Withdrawal management before Vivitrol therapy by trained medical professionals who can make you or your loved one as comfortable as possible and intervene in the event of a medical emergency.
Behavioral Rehab and Counseling – Comprehensive and compassionate behavioral therapy to help you or your loved one address and manage the psychological origins and sustaining factors of your opioid abuse.

While Vivitrol can be a game-changing resource for many who are struggling with opioid addiction, it’s not a “magic bullet” for long-term recovery. Recovery from opioids is a lifelong endeavor that starts with comprehensive treatment for each element of addiction. Recovery Unplugged is one of the most trusted and reputable Vivitrol providers in Florida, but perhaps more importantly, we offer intuitive and compassionate treatment to help you overcome your addiction. Contact us today to start your healing and recovery.