Relapse prevention
Relapse prevention is the cornerstone of any addiction recovery treatment. Following clear guidelines can significantly reduce your risk of returning to the drugs or alcohol that previously caused problems.
As Naltrexone acts as a blocker, sitting squarely between you and any potential relapse, it is particularly important that you follow these guidelines closely. The medication is a key part of your recovery, but its effectiveness depends on your commitment to the plan. By adhering strictly, you give yourself the best chance of staying on track and maintaining a life free from substances that have caused harm in the past.
- Take care of your implant: Ensuring the implant remains intact and that the wound heals properly is vital for Naltrexone to work effectively.
- Avoid triggers: People, places, or situations associated with past drug or alcohol use can provoke cravings. It’s best to avoid these environments to protect your recovery.
- Stay clear and sober: Using other substances can bring back memories of intoxication and may easily lead to relapse—or even cause relapse. Remaining completely sober is crucial.
Yes, the blocker is designed to protect you from relapse. However, it must also be carefully protected. It delivers Naltrexone steadily from its entire surface, through the newly formed fibrinous membrane, throughout the maintenance period—and often beyond. To ensure a consistent and effective dosage, the pellets must remain intact beneath your skin.
What else is important for relapse prevention?
We have seen cases where implants were accidentally pinched or even crushed. When this happens, Naltrexone can be released too quickly from the damaged surface. Tissue complications may follow, including irritation, inflammation with swelling and redness, allergic rashes, local discomfort or pain, and even wound fistulas with Naltrexone leaking out.
Even well-managed tissue reactions can reduce Naltrexone delivery. This happens because the body forms a thick fibrous capsule around the pellets, which can block the medicine from passing through effectively.
It is far better to prevent these issues than to treat them. Please follow our aftercare recommendations carefully and be gentle with the implant to ensure it works as intended. It's your main relapse prevention tool.
A UK patient’s story: Lessons after my Naltrexone implant:
Provocations
Naltrexone helps you reduce cravings and “forget” about drugs or alcohol. That’s why it’s important not to put yourself in situations that trigger your past use—attending parties where cocaine or alcohol is present, or visiting places where you used to consume, can provoke your brain and make relapse more likely. Once you’ve decided to quit, avoid tempting environments.
Other substances
Some people who have overcome heroin, cocaine, or alcohol use think it’s safe to use cannabis or try other substances such as benzodiazepines, ketamine, or mushrooms. Unfortunately, cravings for opioids or cocaine often return quickly, and a new dependence can develop, creating another difficult challenge. Staying completely sober is the safest path once you’re on the right track.
Relapses in addiction recovery are unfortunately not uncommon, and hearing treatment stories like this should not come as a surprise. They can occur for many reasons — stress, depression, a tragic event, boredom, or a sense of emotional emptiness. Timely support and appropriate medications are often necessary.
However, the final step towards a relapse often involves self-provocation. You always have a choice: you can seek professional help immediately, or, if left unchecked, you may find yourself turning back to drugs or alcohol. Reaching out early is always the wiser path.