/assets/images/provider/photos/2820680.jpeg)
Trying to break free from opioid use disorder means facing many obstacles. Going “cold turkey” requires enduring days or weeks of intense symptoms like the shakes, cramps, dehydration, and even hallucinations coupled with intense cravings for opioids. Many people who attempt recovery without a medical plan end up in relapse — or worse.
At 2nd Chance Treatment Center, with practice locations in Phoenix and Litchfield Park, Arizona, our team of board-certified psychiatrists provides opioid addiction treatment that works. By using safe, injectable drugs like Sublocade, Brixadi, and Vivitrol, we support your recovery long-term.
How injectable opioid recovery medications work
Since the main problems with fighting opioid addiction are the twin demons of withdrawal symptoms and cravings, the goal is to reduce both. Drugs like buprenorphine and naltrexone target the same receptors in your brain as opioids do, reducing cravings by blocking the euphoric effects of any opioid-based drugs you might try to take while reducing cravings.
Vivitrol
Vivitrol contains naltrexone. It can help you with opioid dependency, alcohol dependency, or both. However, you have to already have gone through detox before you can start Vivitrol, or you can suffer sudden and even dangerous withdrawal.
Once it’s safe for you to begin Vivitrol treatment (usually after 7-14 days without opioid or alcohol use), you’ll come to our office once a month for an injection. Used in combination with therapy, Vivitrol is one way injectable medications can support your recovery.
Sublocade
Sublocade is an extended release form of buprenorphine. It works well for opioid users in recovery who are already stable from using a daily form of buprenorphine like Suboxone, which is a daily pill.
Instead of having to remember to take a pill every day, you’ll get an injection of Sublocade once a month at our office. Combined with therapy, Sublocade can help you maintain your recovery journey.
Brixadi
Brixadi is another form of slow-release buprenorphine. Like Sublocade, it’s a good option for people who have already been stabilized using short-acting forms of buprenorphine. It’s also an option for people who have received a one-time dose of buprenorphine as a sublingual pill (dissolves under the tongue) or a buccal film (dissolves inside the cheek.)
Brixadi can be injected weekly or monthly in our office, offering flexibility to fit your needs and your schedule. Like other injectable medications for opioid recovery, Brixadi should be used alongside a robust therapy program.
Are injectable opioid recovery medications right for you?
Not sure if you’re a candidate for injectables? Ask your doctor. At 2nd Chance Treatment Center, we’re dedicated to finding the right treatment and therapy combination for you. To learn more, call the 2nd Chance Treatment Center location near you, or make an appointment online.