What Are the Side Effects of Vivitrol? What Are the Side Effects of Vivitrol? Vivitrol is a relatively recent drug that is commonly used for the treatment of alcohol dependence or to prevent relapse in patients struggling with opioid dependence. It can help users break free from dependence by blocking the intense high that often accompanies opioids, resulting in the user experiencing only negative effects from the substance. It also blocks any pleasurable feelings associated with alcohol use. This effect is said to help curtail the power of substance cravings.
How Families Can Help an Addicted Loved One How Families Can Help an Addicted Loved One Millions of Americans know how painful it is to watch a loved one struggle with alcohol or drug abuse. Research shows that more than 40% of adults in the United States have at least one addicted person in their immediate family.
How Do Outpatient Rehab Programs Work? How Do Outpatient Rehab Programs Work? Outpatient treatment allows clients to live at home, continue to work or attend school and fulfill other personal obligations. Recovering individuals attend group and individual therapy sessions each week. They meet regularly with a psychiatrist for medications to manage withdrawal, cravings and any existing mental health issues. The treatment is similar to that provided in a residential facility, although it is less expensive and somewhat less intense. Outpatient treatment can accommodate those with mild to moderate coexisting medical or mental health conditions by increasing the number and length of therapeutic visits each week. One important major difference in outpatient treatment is individuals are subjected to external triggers that can easily sabotage recovery efforts. On the other hand, proponents of outpatient rehab say it more accurately tests the efficacy of ongoing treatment and the client’s coping mechanisms because they face outside triggers.1,2