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Vivitrol for Opioid Use Disorder User Reviews

Vivitrol has an average rating of 7.6 out of 10 from a total of 118 reviews for the treatment of Opioid Use Disorder. 67% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 17% reported a negative experience.

Vivitrol rating summary

7.6 average rating out of 10

118 ratings from 128 user reviews.

Compare all 22 medications used in the treatment of Opioid Use Disorder.

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Reviews for Vivitrol

  • Ex-...
  • June 17, 2014

"I was a heroin addict for four years. I went through inpatient rehab twice and outpatient once. My family was at the end of their rope. In a final 'Hail Mary,' my parents decided to give Vivitrol a try (in conjunction with group and individual therapy sessions). I have been clean from all opiates for 18 months now. The turnaround I've made in my life is remarkable. Medication used to treat addiction is tricky because it will not work unless the patient truly wants to get clean. Nothing will stop an addict who wants to use from using. The only side effects I've experienced have been mild sleep disruption, but I am glad to be awake and sober rather than sound asleep and an addict."

9 / 10
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201 Report
  • Jqn...
  • November 13, 2015

"I am a 28 y/o male. I used all drugs from about 12, but only opiates and then IV heroin for about 10 years straight. I went through at least 7-8 rehabs and detoxes, and endless county jails. In all those years, I never had been able to stay clean for more than a month on purpose. I've been clean now for 1 year, 8 months, and a day. Vivitrol saved my life without a doubt. I was on it for 13 months with intensive outpatient treatment and as many NA meetings as I could get to in a week. I had some issues sleeping with the first shot, but after that, the side effects were only a headache here and there. Freedom from active addiction is worth any cost. Give it a try, if I could do it, I promise anyone can."

10 / 10
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153 Report
  • Jac...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • April 21, 2015

"I'm 21. I'm a heroin addict. I didn't have anything else work for me. When the suboxone was out of my system, I'd relapse. Nothing ever worked for me. I had been putting off the shot as long as I could, thinking 'well, what if I get hurt or break something and need painkillers?' Then I was fed up. I had lost everything, and I was an inch away from losing the love of my life. I made the decision to get the shot. I've had it a month now and was clean 2 weeks prior to getting it. Now I feel back to myself again. There's no feeling like it. I can wake up in the morning and roll out of bed to go to work when before I couldn't physically get out of bed without doing a half gram. I highly recommend getting this shot! You won't regret it!"

9 / 10
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149 Report

Frequently asked questions

  • THi...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • July 25, 2016

"So I've been on the shot for 4 months now and ALL I CAN SAY IS THANK YOU. I'M ALIVE AGAIN AND SO GRATEFUL AND HAPPY!! Got my life back. I'm a better mother and person. This shot saved my life. No cravings, no thoughts about percs!! Just living life LIKE WE ALL DESERVE!! Xoxo NEVER GIVE UP!! It's the best choice in life you will ever make!!"

10 / 10
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128 Report
  • Jus...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • April 19, 2014

"Be 100% sure all opiates and methadone are completely out of your system. I had taken 60 mg of methadone 6 days before I got my shot. I told my doctor up front that I am not a chronic methadone user, maybe used it 4-5 times in the span of 2 months when hydrocodone wasn't available. It threw me into the worst withdrawals of my life. I have had severe withdrawals in the past, but this was so very intense unlike anything I've experienced before, for 2 days straight. The doctor said it would be fine at 6 days, but he was wrong. 15 minutes after the injection, I went into full-fledged withdrawal - severe cramps, spasms, fever, vomiting, freezing yet burning up. Make sure it is completely out of your body before you start. If you test positive for methadone, don't take the shot, wait it out."

8 / 10
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130 Report

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  • Pau...
  • October 20, 2015

"I have been a heavy opiate user for 15 years. I did have years staying 'clean' using Suboxone, but once I got divorced, I became depressed and relapsed. My addiction took off, and I ended up using IV heroin. At that point, trying to go back and use Suboxone to stay clean was impossible. It took an overdose and a 30-day treatment to make the decision to get the injection, and it saved my life. Best drug in the world. I know people have fears of breaking a bone or being in severe pain while being on a long-lasting opiate blocker, but as a paramedic, there is one opiate narcotic that will not be blocked by Vivitrol... I won't tell you which, but all docs and paramedics know... so have no fear, DO IT! I have never been happier."

10 / 10
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111 Report
  • hap...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • January 6, 2015

"Vivitrol is amazing. My daughter just received her 9th shot, and my son his 3rd shot. Before this shot, my kids' only worry was their next high. Today they are enjoying life as college students! We tried other options like Suboxone & Zubsolve, as well as several rehabs. It always ended after 60 or 90 days with relapse. This shot has allowed my 2 youngest (19 & 21) a chance at a real life. They tell me they have no cravings, and the best part is that it's not a daily choice to take a medicine. They only have to make the decision once a month. Of course, they are using the Vivitrol along with A LOT of counseling. The hardest part for the addict is to stay clean the 7 days prior."

10 / 10
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111 Report

More FAQ

  • Mr ...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • July 2, 2016

"I started Vivitrol in January 2015 after getting an OUI Drugs & a heroin possession charge because I knew I needed to stop using, but I didn't really want to. Between January and April, I got my monthly shot but I still tried to use every now and then (but I couldn't get high). My insurance was cancelled in May, so I took the opportunity to get high. I ended up getting another OUI & spent a month in jail till my next court date. I went straight from court to my doctor's office to get an injection and I've gotten one every 28 days since (07/15 - 07/16). I'm not sure how Vivitrol affected my cravings because my first time on it, the thought of giving up heroin was devastating to me. Now I can't believe how much time I wasted getting high. LOVE VIVITROL!!"

10 / 10
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96 Report
  • Anonymous
  • April 12, 2008

"As a chronic relapsing opiate addict, Vivitrol has been an excellent medication to aid my recovery. I have not noticed many side effects, if any. Basically, it eliminates my cravings for opiates and alcohol and provides good mental assurance knowing that if I do use opiates, I will get no effect from them."

9 / 10
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151 Report
  • Eri...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • September 24, 2016

"While the rehab changes your perception no matter how you go into it, the Vivitrol changes your brain chemistry altogether. It's the combination of being on the outside and seeing where you've made your mistakes, knowing that you have a shield guarding you at every moment. Life becomes more normal in that time. It's like a rehab that follows you. Brilliant. When I got off of the shot, I had a couple of moments of frustration, but that was easily solved with my newfound knowledge. Mostly the knowledge of myself. I believe this could save many lives. If you don't want it but take it for someone else, at least you have a month to figure out why."

10 / 10
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88 Report
  • Phn...
  • April 6, 2014

"Vivitrol saved my life and career. I used to take 15 10/325 Norcos a day for one year. The hardest part is before you get the shot, being abstinent from opiates for 7 days, but if you have an informed doctor, they give you different medications to make your withdrawal more tolerable. It was doable, I was terrified, but I promise it's possible. Once I had the shot, I felt like myself again with no cravings. The only side effect I had was a tiny bit of soreness at the injection site. Other than that, I felt NO SIDE EFFECTS at all. That was my experience. My advice if you proceed with this is to make sure you find a doctor who knows what they are doing, it makes a difference. Go to an addiction specialist if possible."

10 / 10
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98 Report
  • The...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • August 18, 2016

"There are no two ways about it, Vivitrol saved my life. In combination with rehabilitation in the outpatient setting (where I was referred to a local doctor who provides the shots, specializing in pain management & dependence issues), therapy, and receiving Vivitrol once monthly, my life has completely changed for the better. I am happier, less tense, less anxious, among other benefits. I was a hardcore addict, and would likely not be around still if it weren't for Vivitrol blocking the opiate receptors (no 'high' at all, no matter how much you use) and it reducing cravings as well. I very highly recommend Vivitrol to those struggling with addiction. You'll see how much better your quality of life will be, and this shot can help you get there."

10 / 10
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79 Report
  • Ive...
  • January 18, 2017

"I'm getting my 18th shot this month. That means I have successfully completed the Vivitrol program at a local adult facility. This shot did something, not sure what but I don't have urges or wants to use drugs. I was an IV user and ruined my life almost, but now I'm successful, and nobody would ever guess how bad I used to be. And I don't ever have to be a junkie again. Thank God. No side effects, so I hope I can keep it up after this month, and I hope my brain is okay with me stopping the shot."

10 / 10
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76 Report
  • tif...
  • April 9, 2012

"I am a very young addict, and when I was in rehab, I wasn't even aware of the shot. The shot is a wonderful thing. I have had no cravings whatsoever, and I am very hopeful for the future. The shot is not a make-everything-better thing, however, one must continue with meetings and work hard every day at their recovery. Good luck. Highly recommended."

10 / 10
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106 Report
  • BD8...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • May 13, 2016

"Today was my first shot and I feel pretty damn good, no side effects yet. Guessing no sleep issues as I went home and took a nice nap. I hope this drug is what lots of people say. The hardest part, as everyone knows, is getting to this shot. Started 10 years ago or more, can't remember anymore, with pills and then eventually to sniffing a ton of H every day. I nodded out in a car and almost killed someone, which still didn't stop me. Only the potential loss of my kids and family support got me here. So far, so good. If I can do this, anyone can, so please try. Your life is worth it. So amazed at how clear things are becoming, only a month sober!"

8 / 10
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78 Report
  • Thi...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • April 23, 2016

"I've had 9 surgeries to my right foot from 2006-2014. I've had any and all pain meds you can imagine. Obviously, I got addicted taking 8-10 percs a day. Besides, when I got pregnant, I didn't take any, but after this last surgery in Jan, I promised myself and for my kids to do anything in my power to quit. Found out about this shot and it works wonders. I'm so grateful I got my life back. Got my 1st shot 10 days ago. No cravings, totally normal feeling. Can't wait to continue being sober and living life how I really deserved!! #27 days clean"

10 / 10
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77 Report
  • Bro...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • October 7, 2016

"I battled opioid addiction for 11 years, and I was in and out of jails and institutions half my life, and all that was left was death for me. I was a split second away from taking my last breath. I have been on Vivitrol, and it has completely changed my life!"

10 / 10
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74 Report
  • Rog...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • August 24, 2012

"I took my first Vivitrol shot on 7/31/12. Three hours later, I was having the worst withdrawals one could ever imagine. The worst lasted about two days followed by seven days of symptoms like constant anxiety, sleeplessness, muscle spasms, and then three or four days of regular side effects. My doctor told me that I may not have been completely detoxed when I took the shot and that might have been the cause of my extreme reaction. I'm going to get my second shot on 8/31. I feel that without the shot, the possibility of relapse will be greater, so the benefit outweighs the negative side effects. I'll let you know how it turns out."

8 / 10
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99 Report
  • Chr...
  • March 18, 2015

"I've been using opiates for 8 years now. The past 3 years I have been a heavy IV heroin user. I have been to at least 10 different programs, relapsing every time, so I'm considered to be a chronic relapser. This time I chose the Vivitrol shot. I just got this about 5 days ago on the day I was released from rehab, and I can guarantee you if it wasn't for this, I would be high. This is early in, but I have no cravings, and my mind is clear. Definitely going to get the whole year, my insurance is going to pay out. As for side effects, maybe small common ones that you can look up, but nothing to complain about. This is the best, y'all. Not one bad thing... go get you some."

10 / 10
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78 Report
  • MAD...
  • March 22, 2015

"My son decided to place himself in rehab for 30 days for opiate dep. He had been on Suboxone for 6 months. Addicts know how to manipulate medications. After 30 days of being clean and in intense inpatient rehab, he chose the Vivitrol shot upon exiting. It was great! No cravings, he felt great. When he saw his new psychiatrist in outpatient, he cautioned my son about the potential dangers of Vivitrol to the liver and agreed to administer one or possibly two more shots after the initial one. My son received two shots in total after rehab and is doing remarkably well. To stay sober, you must have the determination to remain sober. The shorter the duration you are on this medication, the better. Ensure to undergo liver function tests. Vivitrol works."

10 / 10
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77 Report
  • Mon...
  • August 7, 2019

"So I was on Suboxone for almost 5 years. It helped get my life together but created a barrier for moving forward. I grew stagnant, just doing well enough in life to stay afloat. I kept the mediocre job, the small apartment, and 'ok' life. I'm staying humble through this time. I made the decision to get off the subs and chose Vivitrol. At first, the withdrawals from the subs were bad, then I started getting better. My doctor 'suggested' I get the Vivitrol shot, and I knew that would be a good decision. I didn't want to feel horrible like I did on the subs, I wanted pure sobriety. So I jumped on the idea without hesitation. I'm 2 shots in now, and I feel as though I'm still in withdrawal. I will definitely not be getting another shot. I'm certain it's because of the shot at this point. Over 2 months feeling like this??? I'm writing this hopefully to help someone going through the same thing. If you still feel pain, aches, insomnia, general dissatisfaction with life, it might be the Vivitrol."

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49 Report
  • Ann...
  • June 28, 2016

"7-13-16 will be my 4th injection, I'm looking forward to it. I have had problems with opiates and alcohol throughout my life. Vivitrol has saved my life. The injection made me SUPER sensitive to everything, hygiene products with alcohol in them, certain glaucoma drops, and over-the-counter medications. I experience rough joint pain, and I am not complaining. I can handle any side effect from Vivitrol because it's so much better than being on drugs. Whoever came up with Vivitrol injections, I want to thank you for saving my life. If anybody truly wants to be clean, give Vivitrol a try."

10 / 10
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68 Report
  • 1em...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • December 18, 2015

"For almost four years my life was completely out of control. What had started out as playful became my worst nightmare. I spent several years homeless and in and out of institutions. Eventually, I had hit my rock bottom and became desperate enough to fully surrender, that meant quitting alcohol and putting down the needle. Vivitrol helped me stay stopped. Before getting the shot, I used to have cravings all day, every day. Now I am able to go about my day without worrying if today is the day that I relapse. Vivitrol gave me the extra push to stay clean and go about living a normal life. Cocaine/Mali users don't have anything to help them stay clean. So I am truly grateful for this drug! It helped me realize that life can be wonderful without drugs."

8 / 10
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70 Report
  • Nev...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • September 2, 2016

"Was not given the correct information and was not monitored after injection. I was honest and told the doctor I took Suboxone 6 days before the shot, and he said I would be fine. Well, about 30 minutes after the shot, I started having terrible withdrawals. Sweating, and it felt like my skin was on fire for the entire month. I urinated every 15 minutes. Couldn't sleep and had extreme restless leg syndrome. Constant headache and urinary tract infection to boot. Zero sex drive and a bad mood the whole time. Sought therapy at Calvary House and told all my symptoms. No one cared. At $1,200 each month, why would they?"

1 / 10
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63 Report
  • Oxy...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • April 6, 2016

"I'm following up on my first review from January 27th of 2016. I've now had 4 Vivitrol injections and gotta say, it's worked wonders. The first injection, as I said, caused migraines, vomiting, and stomach cramps. Every injection I've received since has been good. No symptoms whatsoever, only positive results. I've been clean since November 17th of 2015. This shot is truly a lifesaver, my cravings are less frequent and very short-lived. I recommend this shot to anyone struggling with opioid dependency. My next injection is tomorrow, and I'm sure the results will be the same as the last 3."

10 / 10
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64 Report
Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.