Myth 1 - The implant procedure is dangerous and painful
This is one of the most frequently repeated myths, yet it has little basis in reality. When the procedure is performed in a clinic that specialises in this type of treatment, patients can expect a high level of safety. To ensure comfort, the implantation is carried out under local anaesthesia, which eliminates the sensation of pain. If you want to better understand the procedure, the potential risks, and side effects, you can visit the dedicated page about the antabuse implant to learn more. In rare cases, complications may lead to the premature removal of the sterile tablet – typically when a patient fails to follow medical instructions.
Fact 1 - You must strictly follow medical advice after the method
The alcohol implant is completely safe when patients adhere to their doctor’s recommendations and maintain total abstinence from alcohol. Breaking that abstinence can lead to severe poisoning, which poses a risk to both health and life. For more information about available support and procedures, you can explore the Treatment of Alcohol Addiction – Help Me With Alcohol page, where the implant procedure is always preceded by a doctor’s appointment. The doctor is also available for follow-up consultations after the treatment. This level of care helps reduce anxiety and significantly increases patient safety.
Myth 2 - The alcohol implant solves addiction
This misleading belief may give the impression that the implant alone is enough to overcome addiction. In reality, the procedure provides time – a crucial window to learn how to manage emotions and problems without resorting to alcohol. In this process, therapy plays a key role, especially when combined with the alcohol implant. Thanks to therapy, people struggling with addiction can:
- build stronger willpower to fight the habit,
- develop coping mechanisms that don’t involve alcohol,
- learn to identify triggers that lead to substance use,
- regain a sense of self-worth.
Fact 2 - The implant works only for a limited time
Typically, the alcohol implant remains active for several months to about one year. After this period, the body regains its ability to metabolise alcohol, and the deterrent effect disappears. However, reimplantation is possible, provided it is preceded by a consultation with a specialist and a review of the patient’s progress in recovery.
Myth 3 - There are no contraindications to the alcohol implant
Unfortunately, not everyone is eligible for the procedure. There are several medical contraindications that may prevent a patient from receiving the implant. These include:
- pregnancy and breastfeeding,
- mental health disorders such as schizophrenia or depression,
- allergy to any of the drug’s ingredients,
- advanced heart, liver, or kidney disease.
Additionally, the patient must abstain from alcohol for at least 24 hours before the procedure. Ignoring this instruction may cause a severe reaction, which can be life-threatening.
