Skip to main content

Have any questions?

Contact Us
Go BackStart Program Today

(Extended-Release Naltrexone Injection)

Vivitrol Program in Sacramento

Vivitrol is an injectable dose of extended-release, long-acting naltrexone that blocks incoming opioids. Vivitrol is administered once every four weeks to patients enrolled in this program.

Patients must be off all opioids for at least ten days prior to initiating Vivitrol. Patients must also be off methadone or buprenorphine for at least fourteen days prior to initiating Vivitrol. This medication does not remove withdrawal symptoms.

Vivitrol Program

Because Vivitrol is not an opioid agonist medication, it is different from methadone and buprenorphine. It does not stabilize active opioid withdrawal. Instead, it is used after the required opioid-free period to help block opioid effects and support relapse prevention.

The Vivitrol Program may be appropriate for patients who have completed withdrawal, are medically eligible, and want a monthly injection option that supports adherence without daily medication dosing.

Treatment includes medical evaluation, lab testing when needed, counseling support, drug testing, naloxone access, referrals, and discharge planning to support long-term recovery.

In summary, Vivitrol accomplishes the following main goals for the patient:

  1. 1.Blocks incoming opioids
  2. 2.May reduce drug cravings
  3. 3.Reduces alcohol cravings
  4. 4.Monthly injection-based adherence
Vivitrol Program

Support recovery with monthly relapse-prevention care.

Vivitrol may help reduce cravings, block opioid effects, and support medication adherence for eligible patients who meet the opioid-free requirements.

Start Program Today

Other Benefits
Include:

Start Program Today
  • Reduced rate of relapse
  • Reduced involvement in illegal activities
  • Reduced hospitalizations/emergency room visits for opioid related problems, such as abscess treatment, cellulitis, overdose, etc.
  • Reduced risk of contracting HIV and/or Hepatitis C and other communicable diseases
  • Development of a strong support system for long-term recovery
  • Increased ability to gain and maintain employment and/or engagement in school activities
  • Improved family relationships

The Vivitrol Program includes, but is not limited to, the following services:

  1. 1.A detailed history and physical exam
  2. 2.Urine drug screen testing and analysis (random and at least monthly)
  3. 3.HIV and Hepatitis C testing
  4. 4.Syphilis testing
  5. 5.TB testing and screening
  6. 6.Individual and group counseling services provided on-site by a certified or registered AOD counselor
  7. 7.Liver Function Tests as needed
  8. 8.Narcan/naloxone
  9. 9.Limited medical services (abscess treatment, etc.)
  10. 10.Referrals for transportation, mental health, medical, and other appropriate referral services
  11. 11.Discharge planning

Methadone Maintenance Program

  • A detailed history and physical exam
  • Urine drug screen testing and analysis (random and at least monthly)
  • HIV and Hepatitis C testing
Learn More

Buprenorphine Program

  • A detailed history and physical exam
  • Urine drug screen testing and analysis (random and at least monthly)
  • HIV and Hepatitis C testing
Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

At C.O.R.E., we strive to individualize treatment and maximize success. There is no time pressure. Some patients do well with short-term treatment while others benefit from long-term treatment. We know relapse is common and can have devastating consequences, so we continue treatment as long as necessary to help each patient achieve lasting success.

We work hard to educate patients about the benefits and safety of MAT. Many myths exist regarding methadone and other medications, but these concerns are discussed thoroughly with your treatment team. MAT is closely monitored, and when patients are ready, medications can be tapered safely under medical supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

We work closely with each patient to achieve a "normalizing" medication dose that relieves withdrawal symptoms and cravings while minimizing side effects. Through collaboration between medical providers, counselors, and dispensing staff, most patients reach this goal within days or weeks.

Your first visit includes an intake assessment, medical history, physical examination, and counseling evaluation. Together we'll discuss treatment options and develop an individualized care plan. Medication doses are adjusted carefully based on your response, and regular communication with your care team is encouraged.

Not necessarily. C.O.R.E. Medical Clinic serves patients throughout Sacramento, West Sacramento, and surrounding communities. Many patients choose us because of our accessibility, treatment approach, and convenient location.

Opioid withdrawal is extremely uncomfortable and often leads to continued opioid use without treatment. While opioid withdrawal itself is usually not life-threatening, withdrawal involving alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants, or other substances can require coordinated medical care. Our treatment program helps minimize withdrawal symptoms through carefully monitored medication adjustments.

Most patients can continue working and maintaining their normal daily routines while beginning treatment. If residential or coordinated medical care is necessary, temporary time away from work may be recommended. Our clinic hours are designed to accommodate the schedules of working patients whenever possible.

C.O.R.E. Medical Clinic accepts several insurance plans, including Medi-Cal, MHN, Anthem, Medicare, Humana, Kaiser Permanente, Optum, Blue Shield of California, Magellan Health, and Western Health Advantage.

Don't see an answer to your question?

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you.

Contact Us
Core Medical Clinic patient care and recovery support
NavigationHomeAboutServicesArticlesResourcesContact Us
LocationsSacramento ClinicWest Sacramento Clinic
CareOur ServicesPatient ResourcesHealth ArticlesContact Us

You have right to verify a program’s license and/or certification status. You can do so at the following link:

Verify program license with DHCS
CARF accreditation

C.O.R.E Medical Clinic

© 2026 C.O.R.E. MEDICAL CLINIC.
All Rights Reserved.

Content last updated August 27th, 2026 @ 5:36pm CDT

HIPAA & Privacy Practices
Logo

Recovery With Respect

Improving the lives of individuals through comprehensive opioid replacement services

Contact Usor give us a call at 916.442.4985
Core Medical Clinic recovery care