Nalmefene (brand name Revia in the U.S.) is an opioid‑antagonist prescription medication that is used to help people with alcohol use disorder reduce their drinking. Because it’s a relatively new drug and there are no approved generics in many markets, the price can be quite high—and it varies a lot depending on where you live, your insurance, and the pharmacy you use.
1. U.S. Prices (2023‑2024)
| Package |
Approx. Retail Price (list price) |
Typical Insurance/Co‑pay |
| 30 tablets (30 mg each) |
$1,300 – $1,500 |
$30‑$70 after insurance, depending on plan |
| 60 tablets |
$2,400 – $2,800 |
$60‑$140 after insurance |
| 90 tablets |
$3,600 – $4,200 |
$90‑$210 after insurance |
These figures are based on GoodRx, manufacturer’s list price, and typical insurance copay ranges. Your actual bill may differ.
Why the high price?
- Nalmefene is a brand‑name drug with no approved generic in the U.S. at the moment.
- It is sold as a 30‑tablet bottle, but many prescribers write 60‑tablet prescriptions, effectively doubling the cost for a 2‑month supply.
- Insurance plans that cover it often treat it as a specialty drug, which can trigger higher co‑pay or co‑insurance.
2. Canadian Prices (2024)
| Package |
Approx. Retail Price (list price) |
Typical Insurance/Co‑pay |
| 30 tablets |
CAD 350 – 420 |
$0–$60 depending on provincial drug plan |
| 60 tablets |
CAD 700 – 840 |
$0–$120 |
Canada’s federal and provincial drug plans (e.g., Ontario’s OHIP, British Columbia’s PharmaCare) often cover nalmefene at low out‑of‑pocket costs. If you’re private‑insurance covered, the copay will be similar to the U.S.
3. United Kingdom Prices (2023‑2024)
| Package |
Approx. Retail Price (list price) |
Typical NHS/Private Co‑pay |
| 30 tablets |
£200 – £240 |
Usually free under the NHS (if prescribed) or £20–£30 for private patients |
| 60 tablets |
£400 – £480 |
£40–£60 private |
In the NHS, nalmefene is usually covered if the clinician can justify its use under the NICE guidelines. For private patients, the out‑of‑pocket cost is modest compared to U.S. prices.
4. Other Markets
| Country |
Typical Price (per 30‑tablet bottle) |
| Australia |
AUD 400–600 |
| Germany |
€250–300 |
| Japan |
¥50,000–60,000 |
Prices in other countries can vary widely based on local pricing agreements and insurance coverage. Check local formularies or ask your pharmacist for the most current cost.
5. How to Reduce the Cost
| Strategy |
How it Helps |
| Insurance Check |
Ask your insurer if nalmefene is covered and what your copay will be. |
| Patient Assistance Program |
The manufacturer offers a patient assistance program for those who qualify for financial help. |
| Generic Alternatives |
While no generic is approved for nalmefene, you might consider naltrexone (oral or injectable) or acamprosate if they fit your treatment plan. |
| Bulk Purchases |
Some pharmacies offer a 2‑month or 3‑month bottle at a lower per‑tablet cost. |
| Price‑Comparison Sites |
Use GoodRx, Blink, or local equivalents to compare pharmacy prices. |
6. Bottom Line
Nalmefene can be pricey, especially in the United States where no generic exists. However, in Canada and the UK the cost is typically lower, often covered by public drug plans. If you’re worried about affordability, talk to your prescriber or pharmacist about:
- Insurance coverage and copays
- The manufacturer’s patient assistance program
- Alternative medications with similar efficacy but lower cost
Quick FAQ
| Question |
Answer |
| Is nalmefene covered by most insurance plans? |
Many plans cover it as a specialty drug, but coverage varies. |
| Can I get nalmefene at a lower cost? |
Yes—through patient assistance programs, bulk purchases, or by switching to a cheaper alternative if clinically appropriate. |
| Is there a generic version? |
No generic is currently approved, so the brand name price remains. |
| Will my pharmacy offer a discount? |
Many pharmacies have discount programs; ask your pharmacist. |
Feel free to let me know your country or insurance provider, and I can give you more tailored cost information!