Painted Grove Recovery knows that starting treatment can be daunting. Whether you’re taking your first step toward healing or overcoming past setbacks, we’re here to support you. Our goal is to meet you where you are and help you lay the groundwork for meaningful, lasting transformation.
Vivitrol treatment is one of the FDA-approved options we offer in our medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program. This once-monthly, non-addictive medication can help reduce cravings, block the effects of opioids and alcohol, and support your recovery in combination with therapy and other services.
With Medicaid acceptance, commercial insurance options, 24/7 admissions, and transportation assistance, we make it easier to access care when you’re ready to start treatment.
A proven treatment for a more stable tomorrow
What is Vivitrol?
An overview of injectable naltrexone
Vivitrol is the brand name for an extended-release injectable form of naltrexone, given every 28–30 days in a clinical setting.1 Unlike daily medications, Vivitrol offers the convenience of once-a-month dosing and carries no risk of dependence.
It is approved by the FDA to treat both opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). By blocking the brain’s opioid receptors, Vivitrol prevents the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol, making relapse less likely.
How Vivitrol works in medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
Vivitrol is an opioid antagonist, meaning it completely blocks opioid receptors rather than activating them. This action:
- Prevents euphoric effects if opioids or alcohol are used
- Reduces cravings, making it easier to focus on therapy and daily life
- Supports abstinence-based recovery for people who have completed detox
Because Vivitrol requires you to be opioid-free for seven to 10 days before starting, our medical team will guide you through detox and preparation.
FDA approval and safety profile of Vivitrol
Vivitrol was FDA-approved for alcohol dependence in 2006 and for opioid dependence in 2010. Clinical studies have shown it to be safe and effective when administered under medical supervision.2
Common side effects are typically mild, such as headache, nausea, fatigue, or soreness at the injection site. Our staff monitors every patient closely to ensure safety and comfort throughout treatment.
Vivitrol for opioid use disorder
Effectiveness and success rates in opioid dependence recovery
When combined with counseling and structured support, Vivitrol has been shown to reduce relapse rates and improve treatment retention significantly. Many clients report feeling more stable and confident in their recovery, enabling them to stay consistent with therapy and self-care routines. Research shows that individuals who received a 380 mg injection of naltrexone, along with psychosocial support, experienced a 25% reduction in heavy drinking days compared to those given a placebo.3
Benefits of Vivitrol in addiction recovery
Vivitrol offers a unique set of benefits for individuals seeking recovery from opioid or alcohol dependence:
- Non-addictive: Unlike some other MAT medications, Vivitrol contains no opioids or habit-forming substances. You can focus on recovery without worrying about developing a new dependency.
- Convenient monthly dosing: With just one injection every 28–30 days, there’s no need to remember daily pills. This reduces missed doses and supports consistency in your treatment plan.
- Dual-purpose treatment: Vivitrol is FDA-approved for both opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder, making it a flexible option for individuals with co-occurring substance challenges.
- Reduces risk of relapse: By blocking euphoric effects, Vivitrol removes the “reward” that can make relapse more tempting during vulnerable moments.
- Clinically monitored: Every injection is administered by a licensed clinician in a safe, supportive environment where you can also receive ongoing counseling and medical check-ins.
- Supports focus on personal growth: Without the distraction of daily medication schedules or intense cravings, you can dedicate more energy to therapy, rebuilding relationships, and developing life skills.
Vivitrol vs. Suboxone: Comparing treatment options
While both Vivitrol and Suboxone are FDA-approved for OUD, they work in different ways:
Vivitrol (naltrexone)
- An opioid antagonist that fully blocks opioid receptors
- No risk of physical dependence
- Ideal for people seeking an abstinence-based recovery path
- Monthly injection means no daily dosing or prescription refills
- Best for those who have already completed detox and are opioid-free
Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone)
- A partial opioid agonist that activates receptors just enough to ease cravings and withdrawal
- It can be started earlier in the withdrawal process
- Requires daily dosing, which can be challenging for some people
- It may be better for those who need more symptom management in early recovery
Choosing between the two depends on your stage of recovery, medical history, and personal preferences. Painted Grove Recovery’s medical team will walk you through each option so you can make an informed decision.
Patient eligibility for Vivitrol treatment in opioid dependence
Vivitrol may be right for you if you:
- Have completed opioid detox and have been opioid-free for at least seven to 10 days
- Want an abstinence-based approach with no opioid content
- Prefer a monthly injection over daily dosing
- Have tried other MAT options and want a different method
Stay steady in recovery with once-monthly Vivitrol
Vivitrol for alcohol use disorder
How Vivitrol supports alcohol dependence recovery
For alcohol use disorder, Vivitrol works by blocking the brain’s response to alcohol, specifically targeting the receptors associated with pleasure and reward. By making drinking less satisfying, it helps reduce cravings and heavy drinking days. This medication is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include counseling and behavioral therapies, to support people in managing their alcohol dependence and achieving long-term recovery.
Combining Vivitrol with counseling and behavioral therapies
Medication is only one part of the recovery process. At Painted Grove Recovery, we integrate Vivitrol with:
- Individual therapy to address personal challenges and set goals
- Family therapy to rebuild trust and strengthen support networks
- Group therapy for peer connection and shared accountability
Vivitrol treatment programs for alcohol use disorder
We provide Vivitrol as part of a personalized care plan that may include:
- Medical detox, if needed
- Residential treatment for structured daily support
- Outpatient services for ongoing accountability
Practical considerations for Vivitrol treatment
Vivitrol injection locations and finding providers
At Painted Grove Recovery, Vivitrol is administered in our Louisville treatment center by licensed clinicians in a private, comfortable setting. Each person is informed about the process, possible side effects, and follow-up schedule.
Understanding Vivitrol cost and insurance coverage
We proudly accept Medicaid and most major insurance plans to make our services accessible to as many people as possible. Our dedicated admissions team is here to help verify your coverage and walk you through the details of your options, making sure you fully understand the process. We believe that cost should never be a barrier to receiving the high-quality care you deserve.
Common Vivitrol side effects and managing them
Possible side effects of Vivitrol may include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Soreness at the injection site
Most symptoms are mild and temporary. Our medical team will monitor your response and make adjustments if needed.
We’re here to help 24/7
Relapse prevention and long-term recovery with Vivitrol
Recovery is about more than stopping substance use—it’s about building a life worth protecting. Vivitrol plays a key role in relapse prevention by:
- Blocking the high that can trigger a return to use, even if relapse is attempted
- Reducing cravings so you can focus more on therapy, work, family, and hobbies
- Providing structure through monthly treatment center visits, which help keep you accountable and connected to your recovery team
In addition to the medication, we provide:
- Personalized relapse prevention planning
- Education on identifying early warning signs of relapse
- Skills for navigating high-risk situations without using substances
- Connections to sober living environments and peer support groups
Together, these tools create a strong safety net to support your long-term success.
Start Vivitrol treatment at Painted Grove Recovery today
Every day you wait is another day opioids or alcohol take more than they give, but change can begin right now. Painted Grove Recovery offers more than a prescription for Vivitrol. We deliver a complete plan for stability, combining proven medication with compassionate, expert care so you can take back control of your health, relationships, and future.
From your first call, we’ll guide you through every step, helping you understand the process, verifying your insurance, and making sure cost never stands in the way. Our expert team provides 24/7 support so you feel safe and confident at each stage, and our therapists work alongside you to address the root causes of addiction while building the skills and mindset needed for long-term recovery.
Your next chapter can start today. Contact Painted Grove Recovery today. You can call us at 502.842.1425 or reach out through our confidential online form, and our admissions team will be ready—day or night—to help you start on a healthier, substance-free future.
Frequently asked questions about Vivitrol treatment
Vivitrol is an extended-release injectable medication containing naltrexone. It’s FDA-approved for both opioid and alcohol dependence and works by blocking the effects of these substances in the brain, helping you maintain sobriety.
It binds to opioid receptors in the brain but does not activate them, preventing the “high” associated with substance use. This not only reduces cravings but also removes the reward that can make relapse tempting.
Yes, when used under medical supervision. You must be opioid-free for at least seven to 10 days before starting to avoid withdrawal. Our clinical team will ensure you meet these requirements and monitor your progress throughout treatment.
Most side effects are mild and temporary, including headache, nausea, fatigue, or injection site soreness. Rarely, more serious reactions, such as allergic responses or liver issues, may occur. Our staff will review all risks and provide regular monitoring.
Treatment is tailored to each person. Some people benefit from six months of Vivitrol, while others continue for a year or more. The decision depends on your progress, support system, and comfort level.
No. To ensure safety, you must complete detox and be fully substance-free before your first injection. We can help you through detox in a medically monitored setting before transitioning to Vivitrol.
The cost of Vivitrol can vary based on your insurance coverage, deductible, and whether you qualify for manufacturer discounts or financial assistance programs. At Painted Grove Recovery, we help you explore all available options so that cost is never a barrier to starting treatment.
Yes. Most Medicaid plans—and many private insurance providers—cover the cost. Our admissions team will confirm your coverage and guide you through the approval process.
Absolutely. While Vivitrol helps manage physical cravings, counseling addresses the emotional and behavioral sides of addiction. We recommend combining Vivitrol with individual therapy, group therapy, and family support for the best outcomes.
Sources:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Naltrexone. Accessed August 1, 2025.
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Drug Approval Package. Accessed August 1, 2025.
- NIH - National Library of Medicine. Chapter 5—Extended-Release Injectable Naltrexone. Accessed August 1, 2025.
