Insurance & cost

How much does methadone treatment cost?

Published July 5, 2025 · 6 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.

Methadone for opioid use disorder is dispensed at licensed OTP (Opioid Treatment Program) clinics and requires daily attendance initially.

Cost

$100-$400/month for self-pay patients. This typically includes daily dosing, counseling, drug testing, and medical monitoring. Medicaid covers methadone maintenance in most states. Many private insurance plans cover it.

What is included

Daily methadone dosing, individual and group counseling, urine drug testing, medical evaluations, and take-home dose privileges after demonstrating stability.

Financial assistance

State-funded clinics offer free or reduced-cost methadone. Medicaid covers methadone in most states. Some clinics have sliding scale fees. SAMHSA block grants fund low-income access.

The value

Methadone maintenance reduces overdose death by 50%, reduces illicit opioid use, decreases criminal activity, and improves employment. The $100-$400/month cost produces $4-$7 in societal savings per dollar spent.

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: NIDA · SAMHSA · CDC

Frequently asked questions

How much does methadone cost per month?

$100-$400/month self-pay. Medicaid and many insurance plans cover methadone maintenance.

Do you have to pay every day?

Payment is typically monthly, not daily. You attend the clinic daily for dosing initially.

Does Medicaid cover methadone?

Yes, in most states. Coverage includes daily dosing, counseling, and monitoring.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.