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Vivitrol: An Extremely Effective Ally In Fighting Opioid Addiction featuring Dr. Russell Surasky

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Let me tell you a story of a young man from a privileged Long Island community who was injured in a crash while away at college was prescribed Percocets for the pain — a story that epitomizes the national opioid epidemic.

Well call him Mike to protect his identity, a summation of his journey are as follows: his chronic injuries continued, as did the pain, prescription drugs ensued, which evolved into street drugs and Mike’s life becomes a calamity of shakespearean proportions.    

Mike may have lost his job, girlfriend and savings, but he didn’t lose hope. He sought out an addiction doctor. Who suggested he try out Vivitrol. Luckily there is a happy ending to the story, Mike got clean and he attested Vivitrol to being a major factor in saving his life. So what is this drug that counteracts addiction?

What is Vivitrol & How Does It Work?

Vivitrol is a once-monthly injection that dramatically reduces cravings for opiate drugs. In contrast to Suboxone and Methadone, Vivitrol is not an opiate, it is not addictive, and does not cause physical dependence. Even more impressive is the fact that if a patient taking Vivitrol were to use opiates they would not feel high, not get sick; simply nothing would occur. The user’s desired effects are negated. Vivitrol is not a life sentence of medication. Treatment length varies but typically lasts for approximately 1 year.

Dr. Russell Surasky of New York is a neurology specialist. Dr. Surasky is triple board certified in neurology, addiction medicine, and preventive medicine. Currently he is the medical director of Bridge Back to Life, a multi-center outpatient addiction treatment program and the founder of the Surasky Neurological Center for Addiction in Great Neck, N.Y. Dr. Surasky calls Vivitrol one of the most effective treatments for opioid addiction.

“With the patient’s firm commitment to recovery, along with counseling and a strong support system, Vivitrol is a powerful tool in treating addiction to opioids and alcohol,” Surasky says. “Treatment with medication along with ongoing substance-abuse therapy and support offers patients a lifeline. Our patients have had remarkable success with Vivitrol. They tell us that they no longer crave or even think about opiates and they feel they have finally broken the chains of addiction.”

“There is nothing more important than keeping families whole, When someone has a substance use disorder, not only are they suffering but so is their family … we all need to join forces to try and keep people alive. No one is immune. No community is exempt.

Vivitrol may be the lifeline that is needed.

SHOT AT LIFE VIVITROL EDUCATION & SUPPORT GROUP

7-9 p.m. Tuesdays

St Bernard’s Parish School

3100 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown

2nd floor room #209

Michelle has been a part of the journey ever since Bigtime Daily started. As a strong learner and passionate writer, she contributes her editing skills for the news agency. She also jots down intellectual pieces from categories such as science and health.

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Health

Addressing Common Myths About Vitamins and Supplements by Amanda Tirado

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The wellness industry is filled with advice about vitamins and supplements, but not all of it is accurate. Many people rely on supplements for better health, but misunderstandings about how they work can lead to wasted money or even potential harm. Amanda Lorena Tirado, founder of Xmy, is passionate about educating people on making smarter supplement choices. Her company focuses on high-quality, effective products while also giving back to the community through charitable initiatives. Let’s break down some of the most common myths about vitamins and supplements so you can make informed decisions.

One of the biggest myths is that all supplements work the same way, regardless of how they are taken. Many don’t realize that traditional pills and capsules have to pass through the digestive system, where stomach acid and enzymes break them down. This can significantly reduce the amount of nutrients your body actually absorbs.

In contrast, oral strips and liquid supplements enter the bloodstream more quickly, making them more effective. For example, vitamin B12 is often poorly absorbed in pill form but is much more bioavailable in liquid or sublingual forms. Choosing the right delivery method is just as important as picking the right supplement.

Another misconception is that supplements can replace a healthy diet. Many people assume taking a daily multivitamin covers all their nutritional needs, but that’s not how the body works. Supplements are designed to support a good diet, not replace it. Whole foods provide more than just vitamins, they contain fiber, antioxidants, and other compounds that work together to benefit your health.

For example, an orange does not just offer vitamin C. It also provides fiber, flavonoids, and other nutrients that enhance absorption and support overall health. Research has shown that people who get their nutrients from food rather than supplements tend to have better long-term health outcomes. So while supplements can help fill gaps in your diet, they should not be your primary source of nutrients.

Many people also assume that if a supplement is labeled as “natural,” it must be better and safer. But that’s not necessarily true. The term “natural” is often used as a marketing tool rather than an indicator of quality or safety.

Some natural ingredients can be harmful, especially in high doses or when mixed with certain medications. On the flip side, some synthetic nutrients are actually more stable and easier for the body to absorb. The key is to choose well-researched, high-quality supplements from reputable brands rather than relying on misleading labels.

Another dangerous myth is that taking more vitamins means better health. Some believe that if a little is good, a lot must be even better, but that’s not always the case.

Certain vitamins, especially fat-soluble ones like A, D, E, and K, can build up in the body and become toxic if taken in excessive amounts. Too much vitamin A, for example, can lead to liver damage, while excessive vitamin D can cause kidney problems. Even water-soluble vitamins like B-complex and C can cause side effects in very high doses, such as nerve issues or stomach discomfort. Moderation is key when it comes to supplementation.

At Xmy, the focus is not just on convenience, it’s about real impact. The company is committed to producing supplements that prioritize effectiveness and bioavailability. But their mission goes beyond selling products.

Misinformation about supplements is everywhere, but being informed is the best way to make smarter health choices. The way a supplement is absorbed matters as much as what’s in it. A balanced diet is still the foundation of good health, and more vitamins don’t always mean better results.

Xmy is changing the way people think about supplements. Amanda and her team believe that good health is not just about what you take, it’s about making informed choices and supporting brands that genuinely care. Choosing the right supplements means choosing a brand that stands for something bigger. With Xmy, you are not just improving your health, you are supporting a company that is making a real difference.

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