Naltrexone (Vivitrol)

Anyone using the once a month injection to curb cravings? How does it compare to Campral? On my fourth day of abstinence with supplements and exercise (not easy!). Will start book and CD's and speak to my doc about a prescription. Thanks--Michael

I too am curious about Vivitrol, and it's effectiveness. I was told by a addiction medicine physician that it was an excellent medication, but very pricey. Hope we can get some feedback from people who have tried it.
Miss Layla

Vivitrol is new, I'm not sure if many on this site have taken it. I haven't heard of anyone yet, but that doesn't mean they aren't out there.

Good luck,
Marcie

Since my first posting, I've spoken with my doc and my insurance about Vivitrol. As a result, we'll be requesting permission to bill insurance as a medical benefit (as it is not covered as a pharmaceutical benefit--only the once a day oral dosage). Yes, it is expensive, about $900. per month, but I prefer its long term, timed released effect over taking medication daily; should help to keep me honest! Will keep you informed. Michael

Michael, that's great, and I wish I could give your doctor a hug for being so progressive. If you do take the injections, please let us know how it goes, and if it's effective.
Best of Luck.
Layla

Michael have you used the Naltrexone oral dosage daily before this? I had tried that and it did nothing for me. What's the best supplement or prescription I should ask my MD for? I'm a newbie to this forum; however, certainly not a newbie at the habit. thanks

No, I haven't used Revia (the Naltrexone oral dosage). Sorry to hear it didn't help you. I'm still waiting for a decision by my insurance co. to cover the injection as a medical benefit. I've seen a few medical info spots on ABC and CNN about the efficacy of the injection for alcoholics and have researched it on the net. Seems very promising. For now, I'm taking Campral and haven't surrendered these last two weeks (feels great!). However, I'm exercising, using the supplements, taking antidepressents (Lexapro and Wellbutrin) and eating well. I still need to read the book and listen to the CD's. I'd prefer the once a month injection of Vivitrol (Naltrexone) since studies show it to be quite effective, but also because taking Campral involves 3 two pill dosages a day (too easy to miss or conveniently skip if tempted). All the best to you. Let's keep communicating! Michael

Nancy..I actually have taken Naltrexone (oral) a few times. It did work for me for a little bit, but it's easy to "forget" to take it or let the craving get to you and then it's too late. I did take it a few times when I first started because i wanted the reassurance, but honestly, I haven't had to take it since the first or second day. The supplements seem to take care of the urge. Also, there were times when I took it and drank anyway..talk about a hangover..yuk..sick, really sick, laying on the bathroom floor praying for death sick...my dr. seemed to think this was an unusual reaction, but after some research I found that this can be one of the side effects. It lowers your tolerance and is supposed to take the euphoria out of alcohol. Anyway, I guess like anything it is a mind set. Naltrexone may be something to hold you over until you can get the topa or at least until you can make the supps a consistent habbit. Read about it and discuss it w/ your dr. It's not the miracle cure they thought it was a few years back, but it definitely is a support mechanism..at least it was for me.good luck..and let us know..SD

I have been on Naltrexone fo 2 months. At first it seemed to work but now I'm back to 1 plus bottles of wine per night. I look in the mirror and see an overweight, bloated red faced women. How do I fix this?

Thanks for all your good advice. Going to MD today and I think I'm opting for the Topamax plus supplements. Should I ask for anything to keep me calm for a few days. Have been a bottle or two per night for quite a while.