A Once-Monthly,
Non-Opioid Option for
Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
Vivitrol for opioid use disorder is a once-monthly, non-opioid treatment using extended-release naltrexone. It works differently than buprenorphine by blocking opioid receptors so opioids cannot produce their usual effects and may help support relapse prevention as part of an individualized treatment plan.
Proudly serving patients across Pennsylvania via our Norristown office and secure telemedicine.
Once-Monthly
Convenient injection
— not a daily medication.
Non-Opioid
Does not contain opioids
and is not habit-forming.
Blocks Opioid Effects
Helps prevent opioids from
producing their usual effects.
Direct Physician Care
Individualized treatment
directly with Dr. Watson.
Watch Medicine vs. The Myths: Dr. Watson explains what Vivitrol does, what it doesn’t do, and who it may help. Expand the video for a larger view.
A Different Approach
to OUD Treatment
Vivitrol® (extended-release naltrexone) is a once-monthly injection that works differently than buprenorphine. It is a non-opioid treatment option that blocks opioid receptors, preventing opioids from producing their usual effects.
After an appropriate opioid-free period, Vivitrol may help support relapse prevention for appropriate patients as part of an individualized treatment plan.
Medication is one tool. Treatment may also include behavioral support, counseling, and ongoing physician follow-up depending on the needs and goals of the individual.
Why Consider
Vivitrol® for OUD?
Non-Opioid Option
Vivitrol is not an opioid and does not produce opioid dependence.
Once-Monthly Dosing
One injection each month reduces the need to remember a daily medication.
Blocks Opioid Effects
Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors so opioids cannot produce their usual effects.
Supports Relapse Prevention
For appropriate patients, Vivitrol can be one tool used to help prevent return to opioid use.
Vivitrol isn’t right for everyone. Dr. Watson can help determine whether it fits your treatment goals and how to start it safely.
Understanding Where Vivitrol
Fits in Opioid Use Disorder
Opioid use disorder affects both the brain and behavior. Vivitrol® (extended-release naltrexone) works on the biology side—helping to block opioids from producing their usual effects—while treatment also addresses the behavioral side of addiction.
What Vivitrol Does
Extended-release naltrexone
Vivitrol is the extended-release injectable form of naltrexone.
Given once monthly
A single injection each month reduces the need to think about medication every day.
Blocks opioid receptors
Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors so opioids cannot produce their usual effects.
Non-opioid option
Vivitrol is not an opioid and does not produce opioid dependence.
Why That Matters
Opioids cannot produce their usual effect
By blocking opioid receptors, Vivitrol reduces the rewarding effects of opioid use.
Medication is one tool among many
Medication can be one part of a broader individualized treatment plan.
Counseling and behavior change still matter
Behavioral support can help address triggers, habits, and the other parts of the addiction cycle.
Treatment should fit the individual
Your treatment plan should reflect your needs, goals, medical history, and life.
Why Vivitrol May Be the
Right Fit for Some Patients
There is no single medication that is right for everyone with opioid use disorder. Vivitrol® offers a once-monthly, non-opioid option for appropriate patients who have completed the necessary opioid-free period and want treatment that can fit into everyday life.
Once-Monthly Convenience
One injection each month means there is no medication to remember every day.
A Non-Opioid Option
Vivitrol does not contain an opioid, does not produce a high, and is not habit-forming.
Blocks Opioid Effects
Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors so opioids cannot produce their usual effects.
Direct Physician Care
Treatment is individualized and followed directly by Dr. James B. Watson, DO.
- You prefer a non-opioid medication.
- You have already completed the appropriate opioid-free period.
- You prefer once-monthly treatment instead of a daily medication.
- You want treatment that can fit around work, family, and everyday life.
The Right Medication Depends on the Patient
Vivitrol is one option. Buprenorphine, Suboxone, Sublocade, Brixadi, and other treatment approaches may be more appropriate for some patients. The goal is not to put everyone on the same medication—it is to choose the treatment that gives each patient the best opportunity to regain control and move forward.
Alcohol Part of the
Picture Too?
Vivitrol is also used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder. For someone dealing with both alcohol and opioids, that dual role may make Vivitrol particularly worth discussing with an addiction medicine physician.
VIVITROL FOR ALCOHOL USE DISORDER →In the right patient, one medication may have a role in treating both.
Treatment Doesn’t Have to
Take Over Your Life
Many people delay treatment because they assume getting help means checking into rehab, missing work, or putting their lives on hold. For appropriate patients, opioid use disorder can be treated privately through a medical office while you continue working, caring for your family, and living your life.
PRIVATE
Your treatment is handled discreetly through a private medical office.
CONVENIENT
Once-monthly Vivitrol can eliminate the need to think about medication every day.
AFFORDABLE OPTIONS
Cost and insurance coverage can be discussed before treatment so you understand your options.
DIRECTLY WITH YOUR DOCTOR
You start with Dr. Watson and continue working directly with Dr. Watson.
We can evaluate your situation, discuss the available options, and help determine which treatment approach makes the most sense for you.
CONFIDENTIAL. RESPECTFUL. HERE TO HELP.
If you’re ready to talk—or just have questions—call our office. The conversation is private, pressure-free, and focused on helping you understand your options.
CONFIDENTIAL EVALUATION