Introduction to Extended-Release Injectable Naltrexone for the Treatment of People with Opioid Dependence

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved extended-release injectable naltrexone (Vivitrol) in October 2010 to treat people with opioid dependence. This medication provides patients with opioid dependence the opportunity to take effective medication monthly, as opposed to the daily dosing by other opioid dependence medications (i.e., methadone, buprenorphine, oral naltrexone). Extended-release injectable naltrexone was approved by FDA in 2006 to treat people with alcohol dependence.

This document gives an overview of extended-release injectable naltrexone (Vivitrol), a treatment for people with opioid dependence. Discusses how it differs from other medication-assisted treatments, safety concerns, and patients most likely to benefit from this treatment.