Cost of Medication-Assisted Treatment Cost in New Jersey

Buprenorphine-naloxone, commonly known as Suboxone, is a commonly used medication utilized in the treatment of opioid use disorders. The two ingredients in this medication are associated with unique benefits. Buprenorphine binds to the same receptors in the brain as heroin and other opioids, which can reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings in recovery. Naloxone blocks the effects of opioids and is used to deter the misuse of Suboxone.

Suboxone is typically prescribed as a sublingual film placed under the tongue to dissolve. This medication is prescribed by licensed physicians who will monitor its effects and make the necessary adjustments to your prescription to ensure you receive the proper dosage. Suboxone costs vary by dosage and the number of films provided simultaneously.

Buprenorphine is another MAT option for opioid use disorder, commonly known as Subutex. This medication is a partial opioid agonist, which means that it binds to the same receptors in the brain that opioids, including heroin, morphine, and prescription pain medications, but with less intensity. Subutex is commonly used by individuals who are at low risk of misusing it, including those who are currently in a detoxification or inpatient treatment program. This medication can reduce withdrawal symptoms and discomforts that can arise in the early stages of recovery, as well as reduce cravings, in addition to blocking the effects of other opioids. Buprenorphine is available as a patch, which is not typically used for individuals living with an opioid use disorder. This form of Buprenorphine is more common for individuals who are living with chronic pain and require around-the-clock opioid treatment.

Licensed physicians prescribe Subutex, often those who are experienced in addiction medicine. Generally, this medication is a sublingual film placed under the tongue to dissolve into the bloodstream. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimated that, on average, outpatient treatment programs providing Suboxone treatment cost $115 per week, or $5,980 annually. Buprenorphine patch costs can vary for those who are experiencing chronic pain.

Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist, simply meaning that it binds to the same receptors in the brain as commonly abused opioids such as heroin and prescription pain medications. Methadone can effectively reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with opioid use disorder while blocking the effects of opioids if an individual were to relapse or continue using. A licensed physician prescribes methadone and is closely monitored to ensure effectiveness. This medication is often taken as a sublingual film in a methadone clinic, which dispenses one dose per day, requiring individuals to make daily visits to the clinic for their medication. Some programs provide “take-homes” for individuals who have sustained their recovery and have a low risk of misuse after a period of sobriety.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, methadone treatment with daily visits to a methadone clinic costs approximately $126 per week, or $6,552 each year. Treatment expenses can vary based on the behavioral and other supportive therapies being provided while an individual is receiving methadone.

Acamprosate, commonly known as Campral, is a medication used to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD). It works by helping to restore the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that are disrupted by chronic alcohol consumption. Acamprosate is thought to reduce cravings for alcohol and decrease the likelihood of relapse by stabilizing the brain’s chemistry. Campral is not associated with adverse side effects for those who were to relapse.

Acamprosate is typically prescribed as an oral tablet in varying strengths and allows for personalization. Licensed physicians can prescribe this medication and encourage individuals to engage in addiction treatment programs to address the root of their addiction and learn to cope with and manage their addiction effectively. MAT expenses associated with Campral widely vary and are dependent on the dosage of your medication, frequency of doctor visits, and other forms of addiction treatment programming you are engaging in. The Clevland Clinic estimated that this medication costs approximately $127.5 monthly, or $1,530 annually.

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain. This can also reduce cravings that are associated with opioid use disorder and block euphoric symptoms for those who were to relapse or continue to use. In the context of alcohol use disorder treatment, naltrexone helps reduce cravings for alcohol and diminishes the euphoric sensations associated with drinking.

Naltrexone is available as a pill, as well as a once-a-month intramuscular injection known as Vivitrol. Naltrexone pills are more likely to be used to treat alcohol use disorder, while Vivitrol is more common among those who are living with an opioid use disorder. When prescribed in an outpatient setting, Naltrexone costs are estimated to be $1,176.50 per month or $14,112 per year, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Vivitrol costs can vary based on its method of use.

Disulfiram, commonly known by the brand name Antabuse, is a medication that can be used to treat alcohol use disorder. This medication causes unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed, which is intended to act as a deterrent to alcohol use. This medication is commonly prescribed as an oral tablet and has various strengths.

The Cleveland Clinic estimated that Antabuse costs $2.80 per day for the generic form, which is approximately $84 each month, or $1,008 per month. The name brand of this medication tends to cost more than the generic form.