Can I take Xanax while on Vivitrol?
Do not take Xanax (alprazolam) while on Vivitrol (naltrexone), unless it is prescribed by a healthcare professional who is aware of your treatment for addiction.
Xanax is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It comes with a warning that it “exposes users to risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose or death”. Xanax is a Schedule IV controlled substance.
A drug interaction between Xanax and Vivitrol has not been identified, but combining the two drugs may have adverse effects. It’s also not generally recommended to take a potentially habit-forming substance while being treated for alcohol or opioid dependence.
Vivitrol is an opioid antagonist used as part of a comprehensive management program that includes psychosocial support for alcoholism or addiction to opioids, such as heroin or certain painkillers. It is given by intramuscular injection about once a month. Patients must be opioid-free for 7-10 days before starting on Vivitrol.
References
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Xanax Prescribing Information. [Accessed May 20, 2022]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/018276s055lbl.pdf.
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Vivitrol Prescribing Information. [Accessed May 20, 2022]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/021897s052lbl.pdf.
- American Addiction Centers. Naltrexone Effects. May 19, 2022. [Accessed May 23, 2022]. Available from: https://drugabuse.com/treatment/medications/naltrexone/.
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