The Food and Drug Administration, FDA, has approved the drug Vivitrol for the treatment of opioid dependence according to a news release by them on 10-12-2010.

Vivitrol, or naltrexone, as it is called generically, is a long-acting form of the drug that is injected once a month intramuscularly. Naltrexone hijacks the brain’s opioid receptors blocking the effects of narcotic drugs such as morphine, heroin, oxycodone, hydromorphone, and other opiates.The purpose of the drug is to prevent relapses, and should be used in conjunction with other treatment modalities such as outpatient therapy, NA/AA if you are into the 12-Steps, and having a network of agencies, friends, and family to help support you in your recovery.