The price trend for naltrexone hydrochloride varies depending on the dosage form, manufacturer, and whether it is a brand-name or generic product. Naltrexone hydrochloride is available in both oral tablets and injectable suspensions.
How much does naltrexone hydrochloride cost?
The cost of naltrexone hydrochloride can range significantly. For oral formulations, prices for a 30-day supply can be found from around $20 to over $100 for generic versions, depending on the pharmacy and insurance coverage [1]. Brand-name formulations may be more expensive. Extended-release injectable naltrexone, such as Vivitrol, typically has a higher price point, with costs for a single injection potentially ranging from $500 to over $1000, although insurance and patient assistance programs can reduce out-of-pocket expenses [2].
When does naltrexone hydrochloride patent expiry?
Naltrexone has been around for some time, and its original patents have long since expired, allowing for generic competition for oral formulations. For example, Depade, an older oral formulation, has seen generic versions available for many years. However, extended-release formulations, like Vivitrol (naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension), have their own patent protections. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent information for various drugs, and specific patent expiry dates for newer formulations or delivery systems would need to be consulted for precise information [3].
What are the different naltrexone hydrochloride formulations?
Naltrexone hydrochloride is available in two primary forms: oral tablets and an extended-release injectable suspension. Oral tablets are typically taken daily and are used for opioid and alcohol dependence. The injectable suspension is administered monthly by a healthcare professional and is also used for these conditions. The extended-release nature of the injectable form can improve adherence and provide a consistent level of medication in the body [4].
How does naltrexone compare to other addiction treatments?
Naltrexone functions as an opioid antagonist, meaning it blocks the effects of opioids and reduces cravings. This distinguishes it from medications like methadone or buprenorphine, which are opioid agonists or partial agonists and are used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs. While naltrexone is often used after a patient has been detoxified from opioids, methadone and buprenorphine can be started in the presence of opioids under specific protocols [5]. For alcohol dependence, naltrexone is one of several pharmacologic options, alongside acamprosate and disulfiram, each working through different mechanisms to support abstinence [6].
Who manufactures naltrexone hydrochloride?
Multiple pharmaceutical companies manufacture generic versions of oral naltrexone hydrochloride. Major pharmaceutical distributors and pharmacies typically carry products from various generic manufacturers. For the extended-release injectable formulation, Vivitrol is manufactured by Alkermes plc [2].
What are the side effects of naltrexone hydrochloride?
Common side effects of naltrexone hydrochloride include nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and injection site reactions for the extended-release formulation. It is important for patients to be aware that naltrexone can cause more severe reactions, including liver damage, especially at higher doses or with prolonged use. Patients taking opioid pain relievers should not use naltrexone, as it can precipitate severe withdrawal symptoms [4][7].
Where can I get naltrexone hydrochloride?
Naltrexone hydrochloride is a prescription medication and must be obtained through a licensed pharmacy with a valid prescription from a healthcare provider. The injectable formulation is administered in a clinical setting by a healthcare professional [4].
Sources:
1. GoodRx. (n.d.). Naltrexone Prices, Coupons, and Patient Assistance Programs. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/naltrexone
2. Vivitrol. (n.d.). Patient Information. Retrieved from https://www.vivitrol.com/about-vivitrol/patient-information
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/
4. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (n.d.). Prescription Opioid Addiction. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/prescription-opioid-addiction/what-are-available-treatments
5. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). TIP 63: Medications for Opioid Use Disorder. Retrieved from https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/pep21-04-01-001.pdf
6. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Alcohol Treatment Options. Retrieved from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-treatment-options
7. Naltrexone. (n.d.). In Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). National Library of Medicine (US). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501323/