Naltrexone is a medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to treat both opioid and alcohol use disorders. It comes in a pill form or as an injection (Vivitrol). Naltrexone blocks the euphoric and sedative effects of drugs such as heroin, morphine, and codeine. It works differently in the body than buprenorphine and methadone, which activate opioid receptors in the body that suppress cravings. Naltrexone binds and blocks opioid receptors and is reported to reduce opioid cravings. There is no abuse and diversion potential with naltrexone.

​

Vivitrol is an injectable form of Naltrexone and is administered in the office every 28-30 days. We work with Vivitrol together to find a specialty pharmacy in-network with your insurance for the cost of the medication. We then work with the pharmacy to schedule shipping of Vivitrol straight to our office.

​

Acamprosate is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved medication for postwithdrawal maintenance of alcohol abstinence. Acamprosate's mechanism of action has not been clearly established, but it is thought that acamprosate helps modulate and normalize alcohol-related changes in brain activity, thereby reducing symptoms of postacute (protracted) withdrawal, such as disturbance in mood or sleep.

​

Disulfiram is another drug approved by the FDA for the treatment of alcohol dependence. It is second-line option (acamprosate and naltrexone are first-line treatments) in patients with sufficient physician supervision. Disulfiram is safe and efficient in supervised short-term and long-term treatment of individuals dependent on alcohol but who are motivated to discontinue alcohol use.

​