Is Discontinuing Vivitrol Cold Turkey Safe While Treating Opiate Dependency?

Posted on Tue, 13 Sep 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 13 Sep 2016 Answered on

Tue, 4 Oct 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I am a month out of getting my first vivitrol shot, but scheduling has caused me to have to delay by a week before I can get my next one. Much question is, will opiates have any effect on me (good or bad) during this one week downtime?

Answered by Dr. Vasudha (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Consult the treating doctor earliest.

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,
Thanks for the query under Health care magic . I have read your query & understand your concern.
Vivitrol is used to prevent relapse in opiate dependency. It needs to be taken regularly for best results.The Vivitrol shot is just a part of the treatment, it has to be associated with counselling / monitoring.
You had missed monthly dose of vivitrol by a week and anxious to know about effect of opiate you are taking because of the break.
Yes, being on Vivitrol.. your sensitivity to opiate is increased... .so your usual dose may have effect of an overdose and has the risk of severe side effects including risk of life. So a reduced dose would be needed .
* In this context I would advise for consulting your treating doctor before taking any dose of opiate for rescheduling the treatment.
I hope that answers your query. Any follow up query is welcome.
Thanks,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng