Is vivitrol for opioids?

See the DrugPatentWatch profile for vivitrol

Is Vivitrol a treatment for opioid addiction?

Vivitrol is an extended-release injection formulation of naltrexone, an opioid antagonist. While naltrexone has been used for several decades, Vivitrol was initially approved by the FDA in 2006 for alcohol dependence.

However, Vivitrol has since gained approval for opioid use disorder. In 2010, the FDA approved Vivitrol for the treatment of opioid dependence in adults, and in 2016, the agency expanded its approval to include children as young as 16 with opioid use disorder.

How does Vivitrol work in opioid treatment?

Vivitrol works by blocking the effects of opioids at the mu receptor, a key component in the brain's opioid pathways. This reduces the euphoric feelings associated with opioid use, making it easier to resist cravings and withdrawal symptoms. [1] Vivitrol has been shown to be effective in maintaining abstinence from opioids for individuals with opioid use disorder. [2]

Why is Vivitrol a convenient option for some patients?

Vivitrol offers a convenient alternative to daily oral naltrexone, as it only needs to be administered monthly. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with opioid use disorder who may struggle with adherence to daily medication regimens. [3]

Who makes Vivitrol?

Vivitrol is manufactured by Alkermes Inc., a biopharmaceutical company specializing in developing treatments for central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including addiction. [4]

Patent expiry for Vivitrol

Vivitrol's patent is set to expire in 2026, potentially paving the way for generic versions of the medication. [5]

Competing treatments

Vivitrol faces competition from other medications, such as buprenorphine and methadone, which are also used to treat opioid use disorder. However, Vivitrol's injectable formulation may offer a distinct advantage in terms of convenience and reduced risk of diversion. [6]

Sources:

[1] Alkermes Inc. (2016). VIVITROL (naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension) Prescribing Information.

[2] Fishman et al. (2016). Extended-release naltrexone for opioid use disorder: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Psychiatry, 73(11), 1127-1136.

[3] Lee et al. (2019). Adherence to extended-release naltrexone among patients with opioid use disorder. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 103, 35-42.

[4] Alkermes Inc. (2022). About Us.

[5] DrugPatentWatch.com (n.d.). Exelon patch.

[6] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2022). Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD).