Does Verge take health insurance or have a sliding fee scale?
No. However, we will assist you in filling out your insurance claims for reimbursement. In our experience, your actual out-of-pocket cost will be reduced, since your insurance company should reimburse you for two visits with Dr. Weng. For example, Blue Cross Blue Shield typically reimburses an average of $200 to $225 for these doctor visits.
Do Verge fees cover the cost of the medication?
The medication is covered by most insurance companies.

Do I have to stop drinking completely before I start taking Naltrexone?
Naltrexone will be more effective if you are not drinking alcohol. The medication will diminish the effects of the alcohol and therefore reduce your desire to drink.

Are there any serious side effects or drug interaction problems if I start taking Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a safe medication with a low side effect profile. The doctor will take a careful history and review any medications you are currently taking to make sure Naltrexone is right for you.
Can I just take Naltrexone and not participate in the counseling program or vice versa?
Research clearly indicates that the combination of medication and counseling shows much greater benefit than either the medication or counseling alone.
How long can I safely take Naltrexone?
The recommended treatment is 12 weeks. However, the doctor may consider a shorter or longer duration of treatment based on specific circumstances.
If I am already taking medication for other emotional problems, can Naltrexone work for me?
Yes. As a matter of fact, disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder or anxiety disorders may be a contributing factor in excessive alcohol use. Naltrexone can be added to other medications for these conditions.
How do I know if it is safe for me to stop drinking?
The doctor will assist and guide you on how to stop drinking and may need to prescribe a specific class of drugs canned benzodiazepines, (e.g. Valium) for several days in order to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Can the Verge program be of help if I am abusing drugs as well as alcohol?
The issues and behaviors related to substance abuse are all the same regardless of the specific substance. Therefore, lessons learned from the Verge program will be quite useful. However, our focus is for those who are dealing with alcohol problems.
What if I just wanted to receive Naltrexone and not the CD?
We strongly urge people to take a comprehensive approach in addressing their alcohol problems. Supportive care is fundamental, whether it be AA, counseling and/or our self-help audio CD.
What if I don’t think I need the medication, but would like the self-help CD and counseling?
Dr. Sachs is available for private counseling sessions for both alcohol related issues as well as other personal matters such as depression, dealing with stress, anxiety and relationship problems, He can be reached by calling his office at 410-828-1388.
For those with legal problems, is the counseling just given in six or 12 week sessions, or can the number of sessions be individualized?
The duration of individual counseling is related to the goals you want to achieve in the therapy. The 6 and 12 week sessions are available for those who have legal issues or for those who prefer a more structured therapy program.
What happens if I am court ordered or sent by my lawyer to complete the Verge program and I have a relapse?
Relapse is not uncommon in early recovery. While the report sent to your attorney or to the court after you complete the Verge program will reflect the number of relapses, the report will also describe your motivation, your effort and your sincerity to address your alcohol problem.
Will I have to go to AA if I start the Verge program?
Attendance at AA or at Verge’s sobriety group therapy will provide ongoing benefits for your continued abstinence from alcohol. However, attendance at these programs is not mandatory.
What if I just want the CD?
The CD is available online for $99.00 plus $5.99 shipping & handling which also includes three phone consultations with Dr.Sachs.
What if I want to order more than (1) CD, Is there a discount?
Yes, (1) CD is $99.00 plus $5.99 shipping and handling and each additional CD is only $49.00, no additional shipping and handling.

If you still have unanswered questions regarding the medication, feel free to contact Dr. Weng’s office at 410-339-3850. If you have questions regarding your alcohol issues, please contact Dr. Sachs at 410-828-1388.