A recent decision by the FDA may be a helping hand to recovering drug addicts.
Vivitrol, an injectable medicine could be used as a treatment for those addicted to opiates, such as heroine or painkillers.
Vivitrol is a time release version of the drug naltrexone, which blocks receptors in the brain from responding to opiates.
This drug has been used to treat alcoholism, however a recent study found that is could help those addicted to opiates as well.
It is a monthly shot that cost nearly $1,000 however now that the FDA has approved it for this purpose, it could definitely lower the cost and make it more widely available.
Naltrexone was being used to help addicts, however it was a daily pill. Many addicts would just stop taking the pills, then leading them to have the cravings again.
There is a desperate need for better treatment for this problem since it is becoming more of an issue than it ever was before. Federal statistics show a 12% increase in the number of people addicted to opiates, between 2008 and 2009.
Also, between 2004 and 2008 the number of emergency room visits linked to painkillers more than doubled.
Vivitrol is not some quick fix. People have to remember that it has to be taken along with counseling. However, if you are willing to take it and fight through the addiction it is very likely to help for the best.
This is scary stuff. We are glad something good is being done to help people that want to get their lives back on track!
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