Naltrexone Program

Monthly extended-release injection (Vivitrol) for alcohol and opioid use disorders.

Program Structure

• Pre-induction: 7–10 opioid-free days required before first injection (14 days for methadone). Documented with urine screen.
• Induction visit: Physical exam, labs (CMP, LFTs), and administration of first Vivitrol 380 mg IM injection
• Monthly maintenance: One 380 mg IM injection every 28–30 days, at our clinic or contracted community health center
• Concurrent behavioral health: Counseling and peer support strongly encouraged but not mandated

Why Naltrexone Instead of Buprenorphine?

• You prefer a non-opioid pharmacotherapy
• Your workplace or licensing body restricts opioid agonist medications (safety-sensitive positions, some medical/legal fields)
• You are being treated for alcohol use disorder as the primary indication
• You have successfully completed a medically supervised opioid detox

Eligibility

• Adult (18+) with documented opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder
• At least 7 days of opioid-free time (14 for long-acting opioids) prior to first injection
• No hepatic failure or acute hepatitis (baseline LFTs required)
• No known Vivitrol/naltrexone hypersensitivity

Program Outcomes (2023)

• 72 participants inducted (46 for OUD, 26 for AUD)
• 58% retention at 6-month mark (higher for AUD than OUD)
• Significant reduction in ED visits and heavy-drinking days among retained cohort

Program Staff

Injection clinic manager: Yolanda Brooks, ARNP-BC — runs Tuesday and Friday injection clinics. Cell for missed-appointment recovery outside business hours: (425) 555-8412.
Supervising prescriber: Dr. Rahul Sonawane, MD — ABAM certification #17081, joined PCS in 2020 from Harborview Addiction Recovery Services.
Program coordinator: Beatriz Almeida

Request Naltrexone Induction