Who Can Prescribe Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is a prescription medication that can be prescribed by any healthcare practitioner who is licensed to prescribe medications, which differentiates it from more restricted medications like methadone and buprenorphine. Eligible prescribers include physicians such as primary care providers, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. This wider availability makes naltrexone more accessible to people seeking treatment for substance use disorders compared to other addiction medications that require special licensing or certification.

Naltrexone, sold under the brand names Vivitrol and Revia, is FDA-approved for treating both alcohol use disorder and opioid use disorder as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. The medication works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and preventing the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids.

Learn more about taking Naltrexone for addiction treatment

What Are The Requirements For Prescribing Naltrexone?

Unlike other opioid addiction medications, such as methadone and buprenorphine (Suboxone), no special training is needed for a doctor to prescribe naltrexone. Naltrexone is FDA-approved as a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) option for alcohol and opiate dependence, including addiction to heroin.

The one requirement is that healthcare providers must be licensed to prescribe medications in order to prescribe naltrexone for patients.

Who Is A Candidate For Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is most commonly prescribed for treating opioid and alcohol dependence after detoxification. When taken as directed, it can help people maintain their sobriety. Any person receiving naltrexone should be opioid-free for at least seven days before taking naltrexone. Otherwise, naltrexone could cause symptoms of precipitated opioid withdrawal.

Naltrexone is not recommended for those who are actively drinking alcohol or those who are alcohol-dependent. Naltrexone does not prevent intoxication or alcohol-related impairment.

How To Find A Doctor To Prescribe Naltrexone

Naltrexone can be prescribed by a general physician or primary care doctor, as long as they are licensed to prescribe medication. If you wish to start taking naltrexone, or are looking for naltrexone treatment for a loved one, you may begin by first talking with your doctor. Naltrexone is also available as a treatment option within some drug and alcohol rehab centers, where it may be taken as part of a comprehensive addiction treatment plan.

Difference Between Oral Naltrexone And Vivitrol Injection

Naltrexone is available in two forms that work the same way but differ in how they’re taken. Oral naltrexone, sold as ReVia, comes as a daily pill that patients take at home, typically 50 mg once per day. This form requires daily commitment, which can be challenging for some people in early recovery. The advantage is that it can be started and stopped more easily under medical supervision, and costs tend to be lower with generic versions available.

Vivitrol is injectable naltrexone given as a monthly shot by a healthcare provider. One injection lasts approximately 30 days, eliminating daily pills and improving compliance since individuals only visit their doctor once a month. Vivitrol is helpful for people who have issues with taking daily medication or worry about keeping pills at home. The main drawbacks are higher cost, monthly clinic visits, and potential injection site reactions.

Insurance Coverage And Cost Of Naltrexone

Insurance coverage for naltrexone varies depending on the type of insurance and specific plan. Most private insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid cover naltrexone as part of medication-assisted treatment, though details differ. Oral naltrexone is generally well-covered with lower copays, especially generic versions which can cost $30-$50 per month without insurance. Vivitrol injections are more expensive at around $1,500-$1,800 per injection without coverage.

Many insurance plans require prior authorization before covering Vivitrol, meaning prescribers must submit documentation proving medical necessity. Some plans require trying oral naltrexone first. The Vivitrol manufacturer offers a patient assistance program for eligible uninsured or underinsured people. Medicaid coverage varies by state.

Find Addiction Treatment Today

Naltrexone is approved for use as a medication-assisted treatment for opioid and alcohol dependence, both of which are conditions that affect millions of Americans. Browse our directory or reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for more information about treatment options and addiction recovery.

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff