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Looking for experience/opinions on Vivitrol

lorrieonline
lorrieonline

Doctor is suggesting to my son that he consider taking the Vivitrol injections (Naltrexone - once monthly).  My inclination is to stay away from the mind numbing meds.  I need to some advice please.  I just read someone's personal experience and hatred toward the psychiatrists and the meds that just made him feel numb and crave alcohol more.  I'm sure it's not the same with every situation though.  Thank you for any information you may have.♥ (They have already started him on an antidepressant of which I'm extremely leary.)

Community Leaderbobinmaine
bobinmaine
I was on anti depressent medication when I first quit drinking years ago but I don't take them anymore. When I quit drinking, I had horrible feelings of loss and isolation but the medication actually made me feel normal again so I thought that they definitely helped me back then when I needed it the most.

I know nothing about vivitrol but I am sure you can google it to find out more. I use to think they prescribed it only for opioid dependence but they use it for alcohol dependence also now. I don't really believe they numb your mind, I just think they reduce the cravings.

God Bless
1is2many
1is2many
What does your son think? The only way an addict can get sober is if they choose.

Personally I tried naltrexone and antibuse and I would be back drinking the same day. It took me deciding to get some help with my issues of less than and inferiority. The more times my mom saved me the more I wanted to escape and drink. The reasons a person drinks is resentments and fear.

I just suggest letting him find a way, the more you try to help, it actually is not doing what he needs, and that is building his own coping skills.
Have you heard of al anon? The boundaries are paramount to long term success
1is2many
lorrieonline
lorrieonline
Thanks very much. A little clarification on the matter. My son is in a treatment facility of his own doing and had called to ask my opinion on the meds. I appreciate what you both have shared. I've thought of some questions he could ask of the doctor and I think that will help him decide. Thanks again.♥
jsonn12345
jsonn12345
I think you have a good perspective- trust your gut! God bless
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