Vivitrol, developed by Massachusetts-based Alkermes, is indicated for the treatment of alcohol dependence in patients who are able to refrain from alcohol in an outpatient setting prior to initiation of treatment with Vivitrol. Vivitrol, a new version of the drug naltrexone, is the first injectable drug to treat alcohol dependence. A similar medication has been available in pill form for some time, but the injectable version of the drug may be easier for people recovering from alcohol dependence to use constantly. A health care expert injects Vivitrol in the buttocks once a month. It may decrease the urge to drink by blocking neurotransmitters in the brain thought to be associated with alcohol dependence. Vivitrol doesn't influence alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Treatment with Vivitrol should be used in combination with psychosocial support, such as therapy. Side effects include vomiting, nausea, headache, dizziness and fatigue, as well as reactions at the injection site. Depression or suicidal thoughts may take place in some people. Vivitrol should not be used by anybody who's also using opioids. If you receive Vivitrol injections, report to your doctor any reactions at the injection site   including pain, tenderness or severe itching that don't improve within one month after the injection.
Price Vivitrol
Vivitrol will charge $695 for a monthly injection vs. approximately $100 per month for a generic pill, naltrexone, or for the brand-name tablet, Campral. The Vivitrol price is the medical equivalent of a marker price, called wholesale acquisition cost. This is the list price charged by drugmakers to wholesalers or direct purchasers; it excludes discount.