Can you start Vivitrol (naltrexone) if you still have alcohol in your system?
You generally should not start Vivitrol if you still have alcohol in your system. Vivitrol contains naltrexone, and starting it while alcohol is present is risky because naltrexone can precipitate or worsen nausea and vomiting and is not intended to be used during acute intoxication.
How long do you need to be alcohol-free before the first Vivitrol injection?
The exact wait time depends on the formulation and clinical protocol, but the key requirement is that you be fully detoxed from alcohol and not currently intoxicated. Many clinicians use an abstinence period (often around several days after the last drink) before starting naltrexone-based treatment for alcohol use disorder. Your prescriber should confirm the timing for your situation.
What if I drink again before my first injection?
If you drink shortly before or around the time you’re planning to start Vivitrol, you should contact your prescriber promptly. They may delay the injection until you’re safely detoxed. Do not take the injection on your own if you’re still actively drinking or feel intoxicated.
What symptoms mean you’re not ready to start yet?
Avoid starting if you have signs of active intoxication (for example, impaired judgment, inability to stay upright, confusion, or vomiting). If you have severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms or symptoms like seizures, seek urgent medical care rather than waiting to start treatment.
What should you do right now to stay safe?
- Contact the clinician who ordered Vivitrol and tell them when your last drink was.
- Ask whether you need a period of abstinence and whether they want you evaluated for detox/withdrawal first.
- If you have alcohol withdrawal symptoms (shaking, sweating, agitation, hallucinations, seizures), go to urgent care or the emergency department.
Where to check prescribing details
For labeling- and drug-specific information, you can also review DrugPatentWatch.com’s drug pages for Vivitrol-related references and links. [1]
Sources
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/