Naltrexone Implant
Confidential clinical contact.
Naltrexone implantation performed under physician supervision as part of comprehensive addiction treatment, following individual medical qualification.
What is naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a medication classified as an opioid receptor antagonist. It is used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder and, following complete detoxification, opioid use disorder. In selected clinical cases, it may support the maintenance of abstinence and reduce the risk of relapse.
Naltrexone does not produce euphoric effects, is not addictive, and does not lead to the development of tolerance.
Terminology used in common language
In everyday language, a naltrexone implant may sometimes be referred to as a “drug implant” or similar informal terms. These expressions are not medical terminology and may be misleading. In clinical practice, the correct term is naltrexone implant.Any colloquial terms are used solely to facilitate patient understanding and should not be interpreted as official medical procedure names.
How does naltrexone work?
Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain, which may:
reduce or eliminate the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids
decrease cravings in some patients
reduce the risk of impulsive relapse
It is important to emphasize that naltrexone:
does not treat the underlying causes of addiction
does not replace psychotherapy
does not guarantee abstinence
Naltrexone:
does not act through an aversive mechanism
does not trigger a reaction after substance use
has a different mechanism of action than disulfiram
What is a naltrexone implant?
A naltrexone implant is a long-acting, biodegradable form of the medication placed subcutaneously during a short medical procedure performed by a physician. The active substance is gradually released over approximately 90 to 100 days.
Implant characteristics include:
continuous pharmacological effect without daily tablet intake
no possibility of missed doses
no need for removal
time-limited duration of action
When is a naltrexone implant considered?
Naltrexone may be considered as part of treatment for:
alcohol use disorder
opioid use disorder, exclusively after complete detoxification
In clinical practice, it is most commonly used as support for abstinence in alcohol dependence treatment, particularly during the early stages of recovery.
Naltrexone Implant at
Zeus Detox & Rehab
Naltrexone implantation at Zeus Detox & Rehab:
is performed by a physician
is always preceded by medical qualification
takes place under sterile conditions
is conducted in a confidential clinical setting
Clinical qualification includes:
detailed medical history
assessment of previous addiction treatment
exclusion of contraindications
confirmation of abstinence
discussion of mechanism of action and treatment limitations
Implantation Procedure
The naltrexone implantation procedure at Zeus Detox & Rehab typically consists of three main clinical stages:
Stage 1: Medical Qualification
- Assessment of health status, treatment history, and risk factors.
Stage 2: Implantation Under Local Anesthesia
- The procedure usually takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
Stage 3: Post-Procedure Instructions
- Guidance regarding wound hygiene, temporary activity limitations, and follow-up care.
The Role of Naltrexone in Addiction Treatment
A naltrexone implant is not a standalone treatment for addiction. It may serve as supportive therapy within:
inpatient or outpatient treatment
addiction psychotherapy
relapse prevention planning
psychiatric care
Treatment effectiveness depends on a comprehensive therapeutic approach rather than the implant alone.
Clinical Contact
Contact with the center is intended for providing information regarding inpatient treatment and coordinating next steps in a confidential and non-binding manner.
Who May Be Considered for a Naltrexone Implant?
A naltrexone implant may be considered if the patient:
has completed alcohol or opioid detoxification
has difficulty maintaining regular oral medication adherence
has experienced relapse after discontinuing pharmacotherapy
is participating in or planning addiction psychotherapy
provides informed consent following medical consultation
When Is a Naltrexone Implant Not Appropriate?
A naltrexone implant is not appropriate if:
the patient is currently using alcohol or opioids
opioid detoxification has not been completed
medical contraindications are present
the patient expects treatment without psychotherapy
informed consent or therapeutic cooperation is lacking
Each case is evaluated individually.
Possible Side Effects and Risks
As with any medical procedure, naltrexone implantation may carry risks, including:
pain, swelling, or redness at the implant site
local inflammatory reactions or wound infection
allergic reactions to the medication or implant material
general symptoms such as nausea or headache
If concerning symptoms occur, the patient should immediately contact a physician.
Medical Disclaimer
The decision to use a naltrexone implant requires individual medical qualification and physician assessment.
CLINICAL INQUIRY
The form is intended for submitting a clinical inquiry. Messages are delivered directly to the team responsible for treatment coordination.
Comprehensive Addiction Treatment Including Naltrexone
FAQ – Naltrexone Implant
A long-acting subcutaneous form of naltrexone that releases the medication for approximately three months.
No. It may support abstinence but does not treat the underlying causes of addiction.
It may be safe following appropriate medical qualification and supervision.
Yes, exclusively after complete detoxification.
Yes. The entire process is conducted with full medical confidentiality.
An individualized continuing care plan may be developed, which can include outpatient therapy, follow-up consultations, and relapse prevention strategies.
Empathy, Confidentiality, and Clinical Safety
The treatment process is conducted under conditions of full confidentiality, with respect for patient dignity and individual needs.
The discreet setting of the facility and the continuous presence of the medical team ensure a sense of safety, stabilization, and anonymity at every stage of treatment.
Scope of Treatment and Informational Nature of Content
Inpatient treatment provided at Zeus Detox & Rehab is clinical in nature and focuses on medical stabilization, psychiatric assessment, and therapeutic intervention appropriate to the diagnosed condition and stage of the disorder. The scope and structure of treatment are determined individually by the clinical team based on the patient’s current health status and applicable medical standards.
The information presented on this website is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a basis for self-directed treatment decisions. Addiction and mental health treatment require individual medical qualification and clinical assessment.