Name of the Procedure:

Medication Assisted Treatment, Naltrexone; Weekly Bundle
Also known as: Naltrexone MAT, Vivitrol therapy, G2073 procedure.

Summary

This treatment involves a combination of medication, specifically naltrexone, and various forms of therapy, including substance use counseling, individual and group therapy, as well as toxicology testing. It is designed to assist patients in managing opioid addiction by reducing cravings and preventing relapse.

Purpose

The primary goal of this procedure is to treat opioid addiction. The expected outcomes include reduced cravings for opioids, decreased incidence of relapse, improved mental health, and better overall functioning in daily life.

Indications

• Diagnosed opioid use disorder (OUD).
• Patients actively seeking to stop opioid use.
• Individuals who have completed detoxification.
• Those committed to adhering to a comprehensive treatment plan.

Preparation

• No specific fasting required.
• Patients may need to discontinue certain medications as advised by their healthcare provider.
• Preliminary toxicology testing to confirm abstinence from opioids.
• Baseline assessments for mental health and substance use history.

Procedure Description

1. Assessment: Initial evaluation covering medical history, addiction severity, and mental health status.
2. Medication Dispensation/Administration: Naltrexone is administered weekly, either as an injection or oral tablets.
3. Substance Use Counseling: Patients participate in regular sessions focusing on coping strategies, relapse prevention, and motivational enhancement.
4. Therapy: Includes both individual and group therapy sessions conducted weekly.
5. Toxicology Testing: Random urine tests to monitor abstinence from opioid use.

No anesthesia or sedation is needed as the process does not involve invasive medical procedures.

Duration

Each component (medication administration, counseling, therapy) typically takes about 30-60 minutes per session. The entire weekly bundle may take 3-4 hours.

Setting

The procedure is usually conducted in an outpatient clinic or specialized treatment facility.

Personnel

• Licensed physicians or nurse practitioners for medication administration.
• Licensed counselors for substance use therapy.
• Psychologists or therapists for individual and group therapy sessions.
• Lab technicians for conducting toxicology tests.

Risks and Complications

• Common: Injection site reactions, nausea, headache, fatigue.
• Rare: Allergic reactions, liver enzyme abnormalities, potential for depression or mood changes.
• Management: Any adverse effects should be promptly reported and managed by the healthcare team.

Benefits

• Decreased craving and use of opioids.
• Improved mental and physical health.
• Enhanced ability to maintain long-term sobriety.
• Benefits may be seen within weeks of starting the treatment.

Recovery

• Regular participation in therapy and counseling sessions.
• Patients are encouraged to engage in supportive activities and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Follow-up appointments for medication adjustments and monitoring progress.

Alternatives

• Methadone Maintenance Therapy: Better suited for high dependence but requires daily clinic visits.
• Buprenorphine (Suboxone) Therapy: Can be taken at home but may have a higher potential for misuse.
• Non-pharmacological treatments: Includes therapy-only approaches or holistic methods like acupuncture, although these may be less effective for severe cases.

Patient Experience

• Patients might experience mild discomfort or nausea post-medication.
• Active participation in counseling and therapy is essential for success.
• Pain management is minimal, primarily focused on alleviating any side effects.
• Emotional support and encouragement from healthcare providers significantly enhance the patient's experience and outcomes.