When people look into recovery, they often hear about Vivitrol. It’s a medication that can help with cravings—but it comes with a price tag.
If you’re wondering about vivitrol cost, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions people have when thinking about this kind of treatment. At LIV Recovery we offer comprehensive treatment.
Let’s break it down so you can understand how much it really costs, what factors matter, and how to make the best decision for your recovery.
What Is Vivitrol and How Does It Help in Recovery?
Vivitrol is a shot you get once a month. It’s used to treat people recovering from alcohol or opioid use. The shot works by blocking the effects of alcohol and opioids in the brain.
That means it can help lower cravings and reduce the chance of relapse. But like any medication there are side effects. Some include nausea or vomiting, headache, muscle cramps, dizziness, and fainting.
But Vivitrol isn’t a magic fix. It works best when used alongside therapy, structure, and support. At places like LIV Recovery Center, people build recovery routines with outpatient care or our partial hospitalization program (PHP). That includes therapy, skill-building, and flexible support while still managing work or school.
This is where Vivitrol may fit in. Some providers use it as part of a larger plan, especially in detox. It’s not something everyone needs, but for the right person, it can make a big difference.
And because it’s given by a healthcare provider, the vivitrol cost includes more than just the medication. There’s a lot to consider—which is why understanding how it works is a great first step.
Vivitrol Cost Without Insurance
Let’s talk numbers. The average vivitrol cost without insurance ranges from $1,000 to $1,500 for just one shot. That’s the retail price of the medication itself. But there are usually more expenses to think about.
You might also pay for the provider visit, the injection, and any required lab work. These services vary from clinic to clinic. So even if the medication stays the same, the final bill can look different depending on where you go.
And remember—Vivitrol is a monthly shot. That means the total vivitrol cost can add up quickly if you’re paying out of pocket every month.
This is one reason many people choose to explore outpatient programs like IOP or OP. These programs offer strong support without high costs from inpatient stays. While Vivitrol may not be offered at every outpatient center, understanding its price helps people make informed decisions about what’s right for them.
If you’re comparing options or planning a budget, knowing the vivitrol cost up front gives you a clearer view of what to expect.
What Affects Vivitrol Cost?
The vivitrol cost can vary a lot depending on your situation. It’s not always just about the medication—several factors can change the final price.
First, where you get the injection matters. Some people receive Vivitrol in a hospital, others in a private clinic or outpatient center. Each setting has its own fees for administering the shot. Those fees are usually added on top of the medication cost.
Second, how often you get the injection makes a difference. Vivitrol is given every 28 days. That means if you use it for six months or a year, the vivitrol cost adds up over time.
Third, some people need lab tests, medical evaluations, or follow-up appointments as part of their treatment. These services can also raise the total cost, even if the medication price stays the same.
At LIV Recovery Center, we understand that no two people have the same recovery journey. Some may explore medications like Vivitrol, while others rely on therapy, trauma treatment, or flexible outpatient support. The point is this: knowing what affects the vivitrol cost helps you plan wisely—so you can focus on healing, not surprise bills.
Is Vivitrol Covered by Insurance?
Insurance can make a big difference when it comes to vivitrol cost. Many private health plans and Medicaid options do cover it, but how much they pay depends on your plan.
Some insurance companies may cover most or all of the medication. Others might require you to meet a deductible first or charge a co-pay. And sometimes, they ask for something called “prior authorization”—which means they want approval before covering the shot.
If you’re using an outpatient program like IOP or OP, your provider may help coordinate those details. While LIV Recovery Center doesn’t offer Vivitrol, we know how important it is to understand treatment costs. That’s why many clients who use outpatient services also want to know what their insurance covers—even for medications.
The good news? Being in-network with an insurance provider often helps lower the total vivitrol cost. And if you’re not sure what your plan includes, it’s always worth calling and asking. That way, you’re not left guessing when it comes to cost.
Paying for Treatment While Staying on Track
Even if Vivitrol isn’t part of your plan, recovery still comes with expenses. The key is staying consistent—and that means finding care that fits your life and your budget.
Outpatient treatment is one way people stay on track without getting overwhelmed by cost. At LIV Recovery Center, clients can choose from different levels of care like PHP, IOP, or OP. That flexibility makes it easier to build a routine, stay in therapy, and avoid setbacks—without putting your life on hold.
Some people look into Vivitrol while in outpatient care. Others don’t use medication at all. Either way, it helps to understand where the vivitrol cost fits into your bigger picture. Knowing what things cost, even if you don’t need them right now, gives you more control over your recovery journey.
And remember—cost doesn’t have to be a barrier. The right support, the right plan, and the right provider can help you stay committed to your goals, whether Vivitrol is part of the path or not.
Step Toward Recovery
The vivitrol cost can feel like a lot—but knowing what to expect makes it easier to plan ahead.
Whether or not Vivitrol is part of your journey, it’s important to understand your options and the costs that come with them. Outpatient care, insurance support, and structured programs can all help make recovery more affordable and sustainable.
If you or someone you love is exploring treatment, take the time to learn what fits best. Recovery is personal—and having the right information helps you take the next step with confidence. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs.
