Most people know Vivitrol as the opioid receptor antagonist, which is used to help people with opioid dependence and alcoholism.
But can Vivitrol can aid in weight loss?
In this article, we will answer questions you may have if you’re looking at Vivitrol, or naltrexone for weight loss.
We will discuss how likely Vivitrol affects weight loss, as well as some tips for maintaininga healthy weight while taking Vivitrol injections.
Read on to learn more about:
- What Vivitrol is and how it works
- If Vivitrol can cause weight loss
- How to maintain a healthy weight while on Vivitrol treatment
- What to expect during Vivitrol treatment
Let’s get into it!
What Is Vivitrol, and How Does It Work?
Vivitrol is a medication used to help people with Opioid Use Disorders and alcohol dependence. It is the long-acting, injectable version of Naltrexone.
The medication works as an opioid antagonist. It helps block opioid receptors in the brain. This means that the effects of opioids are also blocked, reducing their appeal and addictive nature.
This helps people with opioid addiction as well as opioid cravingsbut also helps people who struggle with alcoholism, as it is thought to reduce the euphoric effects of alcohol consumption.
Vivitrol injections are given once a month by a healthcare provider.
Can Vivitrol Cause Weight Loss?
Some studies have suggested that Vivitrol can cause mild weight loss.
However, these studies are in the early stages and Vivitrol should not be used as part of weight management.
Vivitrol, and Naltrexone are not FDA-approved for weight loss and are only prescribed to people who suffer from Opioid Use Disorder or an alcohol dependency.
Can Vivitrol Be Used For Weight Loss?
No, Vivitrol cannot be used for weight loss.
Although some studies are starting to look at how Naltrexone, the active ingredient in Vivitrol, could be used along with other medications to cause weight loss, it is not FDA-approved for weight loss.
Weight loss is not a common side effect that is reported by people taking the opioid antagonist, and is not likely to cause weight loss in people who take it solely for that purpose.
For people who experience weight loss when taking Vivitrol for Alcohol Use Disorder, it may be attributed to the fact they consume fewer calories once they stop drinking.
How To Maintain A Healthy Weight While On Vivitrol
There are many ways you can maintain a healthy weight when taking Vivitrol, no matter what your goals may be.
These include:
1. Maintain a balanced diet
One of the most effective ways to maintain a healthy weight is consuming a healthy diet that is consistent and fulfilling. This includes basing your diet on nutrient-rich foods that bring you enjoyment.
Nutrient-rich foods include whole grains, fruit, vegetables and lean meat. This helps keep you fuller for longer and reduces cravings for unhealthy and calorie-dense food.
2. Incorporate regular exercise
Regular exercise is a great tool to use to promote overall health. It helps to improve mood, keep a healthy weight, and reduces your health risks.
Physical activity has also been shown by studies to help increase assistance rates, for people who suffer from substance use disorders.
3. Monitor portion sizes
In order to maintain a healthy weight, it is important not to over, or under eat.
Eating enough nutritious food to keep you full means that you are less likely to snack, or binge-eat throughout the day.
Eating slowly also means you are less likely to overeat, as your body sends signals to your brain that you are full after you finish eating.
4. Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated will help keep you feeling full, and means you are less likely to overeat. Having a glass of water with meals helps to increase your satiety.
5. Limit intake of sugary and high-calorie foods
Limit your intake of high-calorie foods, which can cause weight gain, but leave you still feeling hungry for more food.
6. Seek support from healthcare professionals if needed
Obesity is a medical condition, which with the help of medical professionals can be helped. There are many treatment plans and treatments for obesity which can help with food cravings and eating disorders.
What To Expect During Vivitrol Treatment
While weight loss in Vivitrol is a rarely reported side effect, it is not considered a common side effect. However, it is an effective medication when it comes to helping people with an addiction to opioids and alcohol.
Some of the things you may expect during Vivitrol treatment include:
- A reduction in opioid cravings, and alcohol cravings
- Increased abstinence rate and lower relapse rates
- Reduced efficacy of other medications such as diarrhea medicines
- Opioid withdrawal symptoms, if you have not undergone proper opioid detoxification
- Mild common side effects such as injection site reactions, sleep changes, allergic reactions, and muscle cramps
- Increased sensitivity to opioid drugs and an increased risk of opioid overdoses after long-term treatment ends
- Potential interactions with other medications
Final Thoughts
Rumors have it that Vivitrol can be used as a treatment to help reduce food intake and manage obesity but it is not safe to use the medication for weight loss purposes alone.
Weight loss is not a common side effect of Vivitrol treatment.
The most effective ways to manage weight include working with a healthcare professional and reducing high calorie food consumption and increasing exercise.
Vivitrol is only available with a prescription and blocks the effects of opioids which become active when someone uses opioid-containing medicines or alcohol.
There are adverse effects when taking the medication, such as allergic reactions, risk of liver damage and injection site reactions which means the doctor will only prescribe the medication to those with substance use disorders.
If you are concerned about your weight, many treatment plans can help you manage your weight.
It is important to discuss your health with a healthcare provider, who can always help you with your concerns.
