It’s never a good idea to mix multiple substances if you have not consulted a doctor. Let’s find out what happens when you combine Xanax and Vivitrol, the backstory on these drugs, their side effects, and possible dangers. Vivitrol is used on patients with opioid or alcohol dependency and it makes those individuals unable to abuse their drug of choice, so many turn to benzodiazepines. This is a rocky road that can easily lead to an overdose. Understanding how these drugs work and interact with each other offers knowledge and insight for those suffering from substance use disorders and gives an opportunity to reach out for help before it’s too late. 
What is Vivitrol?
Vivitrol is a medication used to help those struggling with opiate addiction go on to lead healthy, drug-free lives. To begin using Vivitrol, an individual must be opioid-free for between one and two full weeks (7 to 14 days). If an individual begins taking this medication before the withdrawal process is complete, it can result in serious side effects and permanent health-related issues. Vivitrol is an opioid antagonist that is administered once a month intravenously. It is non-narcotic and non-habit forming and must be used in conjunction with ongoing counseling and traditional addiction treatment. It is important to understand that Vivitrol must always be used as part of a more comprehensive opiate addiction treatment plan – in itself, the medication is not enough to help an individual avoid relapse long-term. Essentially, this medication works by blocking opioid receptors within the brain so that if an individual takes opiate-like heroin or prescription painkillers, he or she will not experience a “high” of any kind. Vivitrol will not be equally as effective for everyone, and several serious, potential side effects must be considered. First of all, those who are taking Vivitrol and who are not undergoing additional addiction treatment can potentially overdose on opiates if they attempt to take enough to feel a “high.” Trying to overcome the blocking effect of Vivitrol by taking large quantities of opiates can result in respiratory depression, coma, and death. Sudden opiate withdrawal is also possible if sobriety has not been maintained for the duration of the withdrawal process.
What is Xanax?
Xanax is the brand name for the generic drug alprazolam, a prescription medication most commonly used to treat anxiety-related disorders such as panic disorder. Those who are prescribed Xanax will not typically take it every day. More commonly, those struggling with anxiety disorders will take Xanax as needed, if severe symptoms crop up or if a panic attack occurs. When taken other than as prescribed, Xanax can lead to a host of serious side effects. These side effects include suicidal ideation, depression, paranoia, and problems relating to memory, coordination, and judgment. Those who take Xanax in large quantities have been known to “blackout,” finding themselves unable to remember significant chunks of time. This is especially common when alcohol is used simultaneously. Mixing Xanax with any drug can be extremely dangerous, though mixing Vivitrol and Xanax is especially risky. While no immediate drug interactions were found between the two, those that are taking Vivitrol as part of a comprehensive addiction treatment regime should avoid taking habit-forming substances such as Xanax – unless otherwise prescribed by a medical professional or addiction specialist. If you are combining drugs or taking any prescription drugs other than as prescribed, you must seek professional assistance as soon as possible. Polydrug abuse is always dangerous, and if more often than not a sign of serious drug abuse or addiction.
Recovery from Substance Use Disorders
We at Evoke Wellness at Miramar treat men and women who are struggling with Xanax abuse and with polydrug abuse of any kind. In some cases, when necessary, our team of prescribing physicians will prescribe Vivitrol to patients with a history of chronic opiate abuse and recurring relapse. We understand that because addiction is a different experience for everyone, no two journeys of addiction recovery will be the same. Whereas Vivitrol might work wonders for one patient, it might not be a necessary part of another patient’s treatment program. We work to provide individualized and effective care to all those who need it, in a state-of-the-art facility geared towards providing quality care and an unmatched level of comfort. If you or someone close to you has been struggling with opiate addiction and is curious about Vivitrol as a treatment option, or is struggling with Xanax abuse or addiction, we are available to help. Simply give us a call today and we will conduct a brief, no-obligation assessment to determine which level of care will best suit your individual needs. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
