The FDA has approved Vivitrol (naltrexone) as a once-a-month injectable drug for the treatment of alcoholism. Vivitrol has been used as a pill, which is taken daily.

Cephalon Inc. will be marketing the new infectable form of the durg. It will be produced by Alkermes Inc.

The drug suppresses the patient's alcohol cravings by blocking neurotransmitters which trigger alcohol dependence.

Although the drug is generally well tolerated, liver damage is one of the possible side-effects for patients on high doses. It is not indicated for patients with acute hepatitis or liver failure.

Patients treated with injectable Vivitrol will also receive counseling and support, say the makers.

The new product will be available in the USA in June, say the makers.

A phase III trial showed patients taking 380 mg of Vivitrol and receiving psychosocial support experienced significantly fewer incidences of heavy drinking bouts compared to patients given a placebo plus psychosocial support.

Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today