Chronic relapse is a reality for many who suffer from substance use disorders (SUD). Often, even when individuals are trying to break the cycle of addiction, the intensity of withdrawal symptoms leads them back to substance use. Medical detox is the safest way to comfortably overcome withdrawals to be able to work on the underlying causes of addiction. At Gulf Breeze Recovery, our Vivitrol treatment program is available to help support medical detox and subsequent SUD treatment.
Located on Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast, Gulf Breeze Recovery is a holistic, non-12-step addiction treatment program offering comprehensive treatment for drug and alcohol use disorders and dual diagnosis. Our unique approach to person-centered treatment that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, behavioral, and spiritual impacts of substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders can help you break the cycle of addiction to discover lasting recovery. Call us at 833.551.2304 to learn more.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating substance use disorders. While highly effective, MAT remains misunderstood. Many traditional 12-step-based programs believe that using medications as part of addiction treatment is like trading one addiction for another. However, Vivitrol (the brand name of naltrexone) is a non-addictive, FDA-approved medication that can help support people to maintain abstinence while recovering from alcohol or opioid dependence.
Addiction rewires the brain to focus almost exclusively on the need for the drug of choice, producing extreme cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Vivitrol works by creating a barrier on opioid receptors that prevent the euphoric and sedative effects or “high,” helping to reduce cravings. Benefits of medication-assisted treatment include:
- Facilitating safer detox
- Reducing the risk of overdose and death
- Increasing commitment to and participation in treatment
- Decreasing illicit drug use and the potential consequences
- Preventing relapse when used in conjunction with other treatment modalities
- Normalizing body chemistry over time
MAT is endorsed by the American Medical Association and the National Institutes of Health for its effectiveness in treating substance use disorders, particularly opioid and alcohol addictions.
The Benefits of a Vivitrol Treatment Program
Every day is a battle for individuals suffering from alcohol or opioid addiction. Many believe there is no hope of recovery, especially if they have experienced multiple relapses. At Gulf Breeze Recovery, we believe that recovery is possible for everyone, and our Vivitrol treatment program results are evidence of this.
The benefits of Vivitrol as part of a holistic, person-centered approach to addiction treatment include the following:
- Vivitrol is long-lasting
- The shot is convenient and easy to administer
- Side effects are minimal
- There is no risk of abuse or non-compliance
- Vivitrol is non-addictive and does not cause withdrawals
- Vivitrol is proven effective
Vivitrol is not a cure for addiction. However, it can be an integral part of comprehensive treatment for many. When the physical symptoms of addiction are lessened with Vivitrol, you can focus more on the work of addressing the underlying causes.
The Stigma of Medication-Assisted Treatment
In recent years, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has gained recognition as a successful method of treating opioid and alcohol addiction. Still, there is a negative stigma attached to MAT.
Advocates of the abstinence-based approach to addiction treatment argue that MAT simply replaces one addiction for another. While medications like Suboxone and Methadone do have the potential for misuse or abuse, Vivitrol does not. At Gulf Breeze Recovery, we understand that not everyone needs or can benefit from MAT. We perform a thorough assessment to determine if MAT is indicated as part of your individualized treatment plan.
Get Started With Holistic Treatment at Gulf Breeze Recovery
At Gulf Breeze Recovery, we pay attention to the details. Our location and amenities provide an environment that enhances the recovery process by creating an inviting, calming environment curated to promote reflection. We offer the full continuum of care, including:
- Medical detox
- Residential treatment program
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
- Telerecovery
- Aftercare
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol can be an integral part of holistic, comprehensive treatment for substance use disorders and dual diagnoses. Contact Gulf Breeze Recovery at 833.551.2304 to learn more about our unique, non-12-step approach to lasting recovery.
