An alcohol cessation treatment has been introduced in Anhui province, China, with the successful implant of a sobriety «chip» at the Third People’s Hospital in Fuyang. Unlike electronic devices, the treatment involves the insertion of naltrexone hydrochloride drug pellets through minimally invasive surgery.
The pellets, about the size of soybeans, are implanted in the patient’s lower abdomen, where they gradually release the medication to suppress alcohol cravings and reduce the risk of relapse. The procedure is quick and takes less than five minutes, performed under local anesthesia.
The first patient to receive the implant, a man in his 40s, had struggled with alcohol dependency for over two decades. His daily consumption reached more than 500 milliliters of liquor, and despite multiple hospitalizations, his condition worsened each time he returned home. The patient chose to undergo the procedure after learning about the innovative treatment.
The drug’s effects begin within hours and continue for over six months, helping patients avoid the risk of forgetting or skipping doses. In most cases, a single implant is enough to support long-term recovery.
This treatment has already been implemented in cities like Hangzhou, Wenzhou, Chengdu, and Nanning, and is being hailed as an effective solution for alcohol addiction. Health authorities recommend that individuals considering the treatment consult with specialized hospitals to ensure the best approach for their condition.
Article written by Zhu Lixin in Hefei
22/04/2025
Source:
China Daily
https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202504/22/WS6806f79ca3104d9fd3820c6c.html