MEDICATION-ASSISTED TREATMENT
VIVITROL for Alcohol Use Disorder
Many people don’t realize there are FDA-approved medications that can help treat alcohol use disorder. Vivitrol is one FDA-approved treatment option that may help reduce alcohol cravings as part of a comprehensive recovery plan.
Vivitrol is one of several FDA-approved medications used to treat alcohol use disorder. For some individuals, a once-monthly injection may help reduce cravings and support long-term recovery when combined with counseling, behavioral therapy, and ongoing medical care.
Only about 2% of people with alcohol use disorder receive an FDA-approved medication.
Why Add Another Tool?
Alcohol use disorder is a chronic medical condition with a significant risk of relapse after treatment ends. Vivitrol is a once-monthly, FDA-approved medication that may help reduce alcohol cravings and support long-term recovery. We believe patients deserve to understand every treatment option that may improve their chances of success.
“If you’re battling alcohol use disorder, you deserve every tool that may improve your chances of recovery.”
— Dr. Watson
The Benefits of VIVITROL for Alcohol Treatment:
1. Works on the Brain to Reduce Alcohol Cravings: Vivitrol works on the brain’s opioid reward system to help reduce alcohol cravings and the desire to drink excessively.
2. Once-Monthly Treatment: One injection provides a full month of treatment, eliminating the need to remember a daily medication and helping many patients stay on track.
3. Supports Long-Term Recovery: Vivitrol is most effective when combined with counseling, behavioral therapy, and ongoing medical care as part of a comprehensive recovery plan.
4. Non-Addictive: Vivitrol is not an opioid, does not produce a high, and is not habit-forming.
5. May Help Reduce Heavy Drinking: Clinical studies have shown that Vivitrol, when combined with counseling, can help reduce heavy drinking and support long-term recovery.
Vivitrol works on the brain’s opioid reward system to help reduce alcohol cravings and the desire to drink excessively. It is designed to support recovery when combined with counseling, behavioral therapy, and ongoing medical care.
Vivitrol helps treat alcohol use disorder by blocking opioid receptors involved in the brain’s reward system. For many people, alcohol becomes less rewarding, which may help reduce cravings, decrease heavy drinking, and support long-term recovery when combined with counseling and behavioral therapy.
Dual-Action Solution for Opiate Use Disorder and Alcohol Use Disorder
For opioid use disorder, Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors so opioids cannot produce their usual euphoric effects. Because treatment requires patients to be fully detoxified before starting, Vivitrol is used to help support recovery and reduce the risk of relapse.
How Vivitrol Works
Vivitrol works by blocking opioid receptors involved in the brain’s reward system.
For many people, alcohol becomes less rewarding, which may reduce cravings and the desire to continue drinking.
Rather than relying on willpower alone, this can make it easier to regain control while working toward long-term recovery.
Vivitrol primarily affects the binge/intoxication (reward) stage of the addiction cycle by reducing alcohol’s rewarding effects.
Meeting You Where You Are
Recovery is personal. Some people seek complete abstinence. Others begin by reducing heavy drinking and regaining control. By reducing alcohol’s rewarding effects, Vivitrol can support patients wherever they are in their recovery journey while they work toward healthier goals.
Direct Physician Care: Dr. Watson's Approach
At Dr. Watson’s clinic, we believe that every patient is unique. That’s why we adopt the Direct Physician Care approach. When you choose us, here’s what you get:
- Effective Relapse Prevention: Studies have shown that VIVITROL can effectively reduce the rate of relapse post-detox.
- Monthly Administration: A once-a-month treatment ensures you stay on track without daily reminders.
- Reduced Cravings: Experience the freedom of reduced alcohol cravings, giving you the space to rebuild your life.
- Safe & Non-addictive: Unlike some treatment options, VIVITROL is non-addictive, ensuring you’re moving towards a healthier future.
Your Journey to Recovery Starts Here
"Recovery isn't about finding the perfect medication—it's about finding the right plan for you. Whether your goal is to stop drinking completely or simply regain control, we'll meet you where you are and help you move forward with a treatment plan built around your life."
Let’s Build Your Recovery Plan Together
Schedule a confidential consultation with Dr. Watson to discuss your options and learn whether Vivitrol may be an appropriate part of your recovery plan.