Most residents are aware of the problems we have in Blair County related to drug and alcohol addiction and of the high recidivism rates related to those who have attempted treatment.

Recently a medication Vivitrol was approved for alcohol and opiate, such as heroin and Oxycodone, addiction that has shown promise.

Unlike other medications like Suboxone and methadone, Vivitrol cannot be abused and is non-addictive. It is a monthly injection and has been used with great success with minimal side effects.

The problem in our area is finding physicians to prescribe it. Since it is relatively new and given as an injection, many physicians have not been open to using it. Hopefully, this will soon change.

A positive characteristic of Vivitrol is that it keeps cravings for alcohol and opiates at bay without producing any euphoria. This medication only blocks the receptors in the brain and does not stimulate them.

This allows the brain to begin to “recover.” It also differs from Antabuse, another treatment medication, which would cause someone to become very sick if they would drink.

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