Skip to main content

How and where is the Vivitrol injection given?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Nov 21, 2023.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Vivitrol must be administered by a health care provider and is usually given every 4 weeks (once a month) as an intramuscular injection, into the muscle of your buttocks (butt). Alternating buttocks should be used for each subsequent injection.

References
  • Vivitrol (naltrexone) Updated 03/2021. Alkermes, Inc. https://www.drugs.com/pro/vivitrol.html

Read next

Low dose naltrexone means taking a dose of naltrexone that is up to one-tenth, or 10%, of the dose that is usually taken for opioid addiction. A low dose of naltrexone is approximately 4.5mg of naltrexone a day compared with the usual dosage of naltrexone for opioid addiction which is 50mg to 100mg a day. Continue reading

Naltrexone blocks the feelings of intoxication (the “buzz”) from alcohol when you drink it. This allows people with alcohol use disorder to lessen their drinking behaviors enough to stay in treatment, avoid relapses, and take their medication. Over time, cravings for alcohol will decrease. However, naltrexone will not prevent you from becoming impaired while drinking alcohol. Do not use naltrexone so that you can drive or perform other activities under the influence of alcohol. Continue reading

Do NOT take opiates, including heroin or other prescription or illegal opiates while using naltrexone. Taking opiates with naltrexone increases your risk for an overdose, coma and death. Do not use naltrexone if you are dependent on opioids or if you are experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms. Naltrexone should not be used before you complete a medically-supervised opioid withdrawal lasting at least 7 to 14 days. Continue reading

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups

Medical Disclaimer