Understanding the “Heroin Implant”
On this page, we’ll explain what a heroin implant is. The correct medical term is a Naltrexone implant, but it’s often called a “heroin implant” or even "heroin inplant" because one of its main uses is to help people recover from heroin addiction.
How much does the heroin implant cost?
How does heroin implant work?
Once you’ve stopped using heroin, tramadol, codeine, buprenorphine, Subutex, methadone, Substitol, or any other opiate-based drug, you’ll need to be tested to make sure you are completely opiate-free. A simple urine test is usually enough.
Once you are clear, the Naltrexone implant can be placed. Its main purpose is to help manage cravings and reduce the risk of relapse — whether in stressful situations or simply when boredom triggers the urge to use.
The heroin implant ("heroin inplant") works by blocking the opiate receptors in your brain. This means that if you take heroin or another opiate, it won’t give you the usual “high.” At the same time, it reduces cravings, so you’re less likely to feel the urge to use at all.
Is it safe?
It’s natural to worry about the procedure or side effects, but in most cases there’s no need for concern. The implant is inserted through a small incision under local anaesthetic, placing tiny pellets just under the skin. The procedure is quick and virtually painless — the only sensation you may notice is slight pressure while the implant is being inserted. Even after the anaesthetic wears off half an hour later, it shouldn’t hurt.
Side effects are rare if you are fully opiate-free. Occasionally, someone may have an allergic reaction, which can be treated with medication such as corticosteroids. Implant rejection is extremely uncommon and can be prevented with immediate treatment of the adverse reactions..
The Naltrexone implant is similar to contraceptive implants in concept, but with one key difference: it dissolves naturally after its effective period. You don’t need another procedure to remove it.
Supporting your recovery
While the implant helps prevent cravings and relapse, combining it with psychological support greatly improves long-term outcomes. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is very effective, but other types of counselling or psychotherapy can also help you address the emotional and behavioural challenges of recovery.
Practical considerations when having a heroin implant
Preparation: Make sure you are completely opiate-free before the procedure.
During the procedure: Local anaesthetic is used; the implant is placed quickly and comfortably under the skin.
After the procedure: You will not feel pain. You can resume normal activities 3h later. However, anything involving pressure in the implant site needs to be avoided for a month.
Follow-up: Change the wound dressing every other day and remove the stitches on the 7th day.
The Naltrexone implant is designed to help you regain control of your life safely, comfortably, and effectively — giving you the support you need to move forward without heroin.
What are the risks?
The Naltrexone implant itself is very safe, and complications from the procedure are rare.
However, the main risk comes if someone tries to use heroin (or another opiate) while the implant is active.
Because Naltrexone completely blocks the opiate receptors, you won’t feel any of the usual effects — no rush or feeling of being “high.” This can lead some people to take larger or repeated doses in an attempt to overcome the block. Doing so can be extremely dangerous and may result in an overdose without the person realising it, as the body’s tolerance to opiates has already decreased.
For this reason, it’s very important not to try using heroin or any other opiate while you have the implant in place!
