A new treatment for heroin addicts is being tested by Winnebago County officials. Those participating in the county's drug court can voluntarily try medication aimed at reducing their dependency on opiates. Authorities from almost all corners of Illinois continue to sound the alarm over the negative effect heroin has had on their respective communities. Many jurisdictions have reported a spike in overdoses. They also say it's nearly impossible at times to get inmates, who end up in jail because of the drug, to stay clean.
But some say there's a glimmer of hope in that area. It's called Vivitrol. The non-narcotic medicine is injected once a month. Health experts say it can reduce cravings for opiates, while blocking the effects they have on brain cells.
In January, the Winnebago County Adult Drug Court began offering the treatment to its participants after securing a sponsorship at the state level. Judge Janet Holmgren, who oversees the program, says it compliments other structured forms of treatment.
"It's not a magic-bullet, but it's another tool," Holmgren said.
Holmgren says early results show some promise in helping clients stay clean. A recent study done in Russia showed that Vivitrol reduces relapse. Researchers say 86 percent of patients taking the medication were drug-free, going to counseling sessions and functioning in a job or at school.
Concerns
Shots of Vivitrol can cost around $1000. Some observers say that can be an expensive proposition for someone who isn't participating in a program that covers the cost, or doesn't have insurance that will pay for the treatment.
Meanwhile, medical officials worry that addicts will take too much heroin to override the medication. But Holmgren says participants in her court's program are repeatedly warned about the consequences.