FDA approves Vivitrol to treat opioid-dependent patients

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Vivitrol to treat and prevent relapse after patients with opioid dependence have undergone detoxification treatment.

Vivitrol is an extended-release formulation of naltrexone administered by intramuscular injection once a month. Naltrexone works to block opioid receptors in the brain. It blocks the effects of drugs like morphine, heroin, and other opioids. It was approved to treat alcohol dependence in 2006.

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Drug and Alcohol Rehab Programs

I've seen many patients who have needed some type of drug or alcohol rehabilitation. Do you know where to go to find help? It can be difficult to find a good drug rehab facility because of the social stigma associated with addiction problems. It's also very difficult for addicts to quit their addictions. I don't think that most people or family members would feel comfortable asking their friends and colleagues for referrals to rehab programs. However, it is important to find a good program that has the proper support structure and that centers around your beliefs and values.

Many celebrities fall into drug and alcohol addiction. Remember the musician Ray Charles? He was a heroin addict. The biographic movie about Ray Charles had some graphic scenes showing him go through heroin withdrawal. Heroin withdrawal can be difficult to witness at home, so it's important to have your loved one in a safe and professional environment. Ray Charles should have gone through a detox program and heroin rehab.