. The drug works by blocking the enzyme that breaks down alcohol, causing a severe, unpleasant reaction if any alcohol is ingested. The Surgical ProcedureThe operation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia and takes about 15–30 minutes.
Preparation: Patients must be completely sober, typically abstaining from alcohol for at least 24 to 48 hours before the procedure to avoid immediate adverse reactions.
Incision & Placement: A small incision (approx. 1–3 cm) is made, usually in the lower abdomen, buttocks, or the subscapular area (back of the shoulder).
Depth: The tablets (often 8–10 tablets of 100mg each) are inserted either subcutaneously (just under the fat layer) or intramuscularly (deeper into the muscle).
Note: Intramuscular placement in the subscapular region is often preferred to reduce the risk of wound complications and to keep the implant out of the patient's reach.
Closure: The wound is closed with stitches, which are typically removed after about two weeks
How it Works
Duration: The implant slowly releases into the bloodstream, remaining effective for 8 to 12 months on average.
The Reaction: If a patient drinks alcohol, they may experience flushing, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, and severe headaches within 10–30 minutes.
Effectiveness: it is highly effective as a psychological deterrent.
