The pill form of Vivitrol is called Naltrexone. The federal government spent millions to develop Naltrexone about 30 years ago to prevent heroin relapses. The FDA approved it to treat heroin addiction in 1984, and for alcoholism in 1994.But the pill required a measure of discipline, as it needed to be taken daily.nd the monthly injections cost about $800 to $1,200 each. Another hurdle is that Vivitrol can be overridden with large amounts of opiates or alcohol. Stephanie said she once drank more than she could remember, trying to get drunk before the shot wore off.