The thought of stopping alcohol or opioid use can feel overwhelming. Many individuals fear cravings and worry that they may relapse. At Retreat of Atlanta, we recognize the need for innovative treatment solutions, which is why we incorporate medications such as naltrexone into our comprehensive programming. Our naltrexone treatment in Georgia is designed to help those struggling with alcohol and opioid addiction smoothly navigate recovery while staying dedicated to their rehab program.
Contact Retreat of Atlanta today to begin medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in Georgia.
What is Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a safe medication that is prescribed for the treatment of alcoholism and opioid addiction. It works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain. This reduces cravings without creating a high. Additionally, if an individual relapses and consumes alcohol or uses opioids, naltrexone prevents them from experiencing euphoric effects.
Naltrexone is available as a monthly injection or as a daily oral medication. Brand names may include Vivitrol, ReVia, and Depade. Overall, this medication is a non-addictive solution that safely helps individuals establish sustainable sobriety while preventing relapse.
How Long Does Naltrexone Take To Work?
The exact time naltrexone takes to work largely depends on the form being utilized. Typically, the timeline is as follows:
- Injection: When directly injected, this medication begins working after around two hours. It is important to note that the effects of this injection last up to a month. At Retreat of Atlanta, naltrexone injections are available under the brand-name medication Vivitrol.
- Oral Pills: When ingested orally, naltrexone starts working within an hour.
Is Naltrexone Addictive?
Naltrexone does not create dependency and is considered non-habit forming. Therefore no, it is not an addictive substance. Furthermore, it does not create a high and even prevents euphoric effects when a person interacts with alcohol or opioids—thus guaranteeing it is not misused.
What Are The Side Effects of Naltrexone?
Though naltrexone has many benefits and is ultimately considered safe, side effects are possible. It is important that a person divulges any medications—both prescription and over-the-counter—and supplements that they are currently taking to prevent potentially negative interactions.
Common side effects associated with naltrexone treatment include:
- Headache
- Pain in the stomach or abdomen
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Trouble sleeping
- Increased anxiety
- Joint pain
In severe cases, individuals may experience:
- Hallucinations
- Blurred vision
- Chest pain
Our Treatment Programs That Offer Naltrexone
At Retreat of Atlanta, we are proud to provide a wide range of comprehensive programming. We offer both gender-specific detox to help clients create a firm foundation for recovery as well as additional rehab treatment and aftercare. Our programs that offer naltrexone treatment in Georgia include:
- Alcohol Detox
- Opiate Detox
- Heroin Detox
- Fentanyl Detox
- Prescription Drug Detox
- Residential Rehab
- Alcohol Rehab
- Opioid Rehab
- Heroin Rehab
- Fentanyl Rehab
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Using Naltrexone for Opioid Use Disorder
An FDA-approved medication, naltrexone is widely used in the treatment of opioid addiction. It works by interfering with specific brain receptors that opioids typically bind to for their euphoric and calming effects. By obstructing these receptors, this medication stops opioids from producing their usual high and thus decreases drug cravings.
Using Naltrexone For Alcohol Use Disorder
Naltrexone inhibits the pleasurable effects caused by alcohol consumption. This helps those with alcohol use disorder reduce their drinking, stay committed to treatment, and avoid relapsing. As a result, their cravings for alcohol gradually diminish—leading to long-term sobriety.
Though naltrexone can minimize the euphoric effects of alcohol, it is critical to note that it does not prevent impairment. If a person does relapse while on this medication, they should abstain from dangerous behaviors such as driving under the influence.
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Other Therapies We Offer
In addition to medication-assisted treatment, Retreat of Atlanta offers addiction therapy in Georgia. These include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) centers on changing an individual’s thought process as a way to improve their behavior and establish healthier ways of thinking.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy: A type of CBT, dialectical behavioral therapy places emphasis on problem resolution and acceptance. Additionally, it highlights the importance of the relationship between client and therapist.
- Individual Therapy: While in individual therapy sessions, clients work one-on-one with a qualified mental health professional. This personalized approach encourages open communication and a sense of trust.
- Group Therapy: While in group therapy, individuals have the opportunity to share openly and listen empathetically. This helps them to garner a strong support network in recovery while reducing the unfortunate stigma often associated with addiction.
- Family Counseling: Family counseling provides a constructive environment in which individuals and their loved ones can mend relationships and work through challenges in a healthy way.
- Psychiatry: Psychiatry diagnoses mental illness and treats these conditions through a combination of mental health medications and therapy. The overall goal is to reduce the symptoms of mental illness and encourage overall improved wellbeing.
- Holistic Therapy: Holistic therapy focuses on healing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—not just treating their addiction. Strategies include nutritional guidance, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness.
Find Naltrexone Treatment in Georgia
Recovery from alcohol and opioid misuse is possible. Retreat of Atlanta provides an effective yet personalized approach to treatment—ensuring your specific needs are always met. With years of experience and unwavering compassion, our multidisciplinary team is ready to help you throughout every step of the process. We integrate naltrexone treatment as well as other forms of medication management into our programs to ensure our clients have the best chance of preventing relapse and finding long-term healing.
To learn more about the services we provide in Georgia or to start on the road to recovery today, give us a call at (762)242-6556 or visit our admissions page.
