What is Esperal?
Esperal is a medication in the form of a subcutaneous implant containing disulfiram – a substance used in alcohol addiction treatment for over 50 years. The alcohol implant is a proven method supporting individuals in maintaining abstinence. The preparation works by blocking the enzyme responsible for alcohol metabolism in the body.
When a person with the implant consumes alcohol, acetaldehyde accumulates in the body – a toxic product of ethanol conversion. This causes strong, unpleasant symptoms:
- Intense flushing of the face and neck
- Accelerated heartbeat and palpitations
- Nausea, vomiting, dizziness
- Severe headaches and feeling of suffocation
- Blood pressure drop, weakness
- Anxiety and restlessness
This aversive reaction makes drinking alcohol extremely unpleasant, effectively discouraging reaching for alcoholic beverages. The mere awareness of the implant's presence also acts as a strong psychological barrier.
Alcohol Implant in Wrocław
At our clinic at Dworcowa 11b street in Wrocław, we have been performing Esperal implantations since 2002. We serve patients from all over Lower Silesia: Wrocław, Wałbrzych, Legnica, Jelenia Góra, Kłodzko and surrounding areas. The convenient location just 300 meters from the Main Railway Station ensures easy access by PKP, PKS and public transport.
How does the alcohol implant work in Wrocław? Mechanism of aversion therapy
The alcohol implant works on the principle of aversion therapy. This is a treatment method based on creating negative associations with drinking alcohol. Disulfiram contained in the Esperal implant blocks the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, which normally converts toxic acetaldehyde into harmless acetic acid.
Process of alcohol metabolism with the implant:
- Alcohol consumption – ethanol is absorbed into the blood
- First conversion – alcohol transforms into acetaldehyde
- Enzyme blockade – disulfiram prevents further conversion
- Toxin accumulation – acetaldehyde accumulates in the body
- Aversive reaction – strong, unpleasant symptoms appear
The reaction appears within a few minutes of consuming even a small amount of alcohol. This also applies to products containing alcohol: certain medications, mouthwashes, rum desserts, or wine sauces.
How long does the Esperal alcohol implant work?
Esperal (alcohol implant) typically works for 8 to 12 months. The exact duration depends on the Disulfiram dose and the patient's individual metabolism. At Nasz Gabinet Wrocław, we adjust the implant dose to the individual needs of the patient.
Factors affecting Esperal effectiveness
The implant's effectiveness depends not only on the dose, but also on:
- Patient's individual metabolism
- Body weight and adipose tissue proportion
- Overall health condition
- Cooperation with medical recommendations
- Participation in psychotherapy
Continuing treatment after implant expiration
When the implant stops working, the patient has several options: re-implantation, switching to tablet form of disulfiram, or continuing therapy without pharmacological support – depending on progress in treatment.
Early removal of alcohol implant
Technically it is surgically possible, but we strongly advise against it. Implant removal is a more invasive procedure than implantation and should only be considered in absolutely exceptional medical situations.
Benefits of alcohol implant – why choose Esperal?
The Esperal alcohol implant offers a range of benefits in alcohol addiction treatment. It is one of the most effective methods supporting abstinence maintenance, especially in the initial recovery period.
Long-lasting action of Esperal implant – up to 12 months
Unlike tablets that require daily intake, the Esperal implant works continuously for many months.
- No risk of missing a dose
- Protection against impulsive decision to discontinue treatment
- Automatic action without daily reminders
Psychological barrier against reaching for alcohol
Awareness of the implant's presence and potential consequences of drinking acts as a strong psychological barrier. Patients often say it's easier to refuse alcohol knowing about the implanted medication.
- Easier refusal in social situations
- Time to develop healthy habits
- Building stress coping mechanisms
Implant as part of comprehensive addiction therapy
The implant is not a standalone solution, but an important element of a broader therapeutic program.
- More effective combined with psychotherapy
- Provides a "time window" for therapeutic work
- Increases chances of permanent recovery from addiction
Quick outpatient procedure – 15-20 minutes
Alcohol implant implantation is a simple procedure performed in outpatient conditions.
- Procedure time: 15-20 minutes
- Return home the same day
- No hospitalization required
Even release of Disulfiram throughout the action period
The implant releases the active substance gradually and evenly, ensuring constant drug concentration in the blood.
- No concentration fluctuations as with tablets
- Predictable, stable action
- Optimal therapeutic effectiveness
Full discretion and anonymity of treatment
The alcohol implant allows maintaining privacy during the treatment process.
- Small scar invisible under clothing
- Normal functioning in daily life
- No need to inform the surroundings
Who can have an alcohol implant? Qualification criteria
The Esperal alcohol implant is intended for individuals with diagnosed alcohol addiction who are motivated for treatment. The decision on qualification is made by a doctor after detailed assessment of the patient's health condition.
Ideal candidates for Esperal alcohol implant
- Individuals with alcohol addiction wanting to maintain abstinence
- Patients after completed alcohol detoxification
- Individuals with history of drinking relapses seeking additional support
- Patients motivated for comprehensive treatment
- Individuals who tried other methods without success
- Patients with family support in the recovery process
Conditions for implantation qualification
- Informed consent – patient must understand the action and consequences. Forced treatment is unethical and ineffective
- Minimum 24 hours of abstinence before the procedure (optimally 48 hours; alternatively detox at the clinic)
- No medical contraindications – assessed by the doctor
- Motivation for treatment – implant supports but doesn't replace patient's will
- Readiness for psychotherapy – implant alone is not enough for lasting effect
Alcohol implant without family consent – patient's decision
Yes. The decision about treatment belongs solely to the patient. However, family support significantly increases the chances of therapy success.
Contraindications to alcohol implant implantation
There are health conditions that exclude the possibility of Esperal implantation or require special caution:
Absolute contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Severe liver failure or cirrhosis
- Severe renal failure
- Heart diseases (failure, recent infarction, unstable angina)
- Untreated epilepsy
- Acute psychosis and severe mental disorders
- Allergy to disulfiram
Relative contraindications (require consultation)
- Diabetes
- Hyperthyroidism
- Respiratory system diseases
- Taking certain medications (metronidazole, warfarin, phenytoin)
- Age over 65 years
Each case is considered individually. Even with relative contraindications, safe implantation is possible with appropriate precautions.
What to expect after alcohol implant? Effects and realistic goals
The alcohol implant is a supporting tool, not a magical solution. Understanding realistic expectations is crucial for therapy success.
What the implant will NOT do
- Will not cure addiction by itself
- Will not remove the desire to drink (alcohol craving)
- Will not solve psychological problems underlying the addiction
- Will not replace psychotherapy and self-work
What the implant CAN give
- Time for sobering up – period without alcohol needed for body and mind regeneration
- Additional motivation – awareness of drinking consequences as a barrier
- Space for therapy – easier to work on oneself being sober
- Breaking the relapse cycle – especially important with compulsive drinking
Best effects when
The implant gives best results combined with individual or group psychotherapy, family support, lifestyle change and possibly other forms of pharmacotherapy (e.g., medications for alcohol craving).
Alcohol implant safety – what you should know
Esperal has been used for over 50 years and is one of the best-researched medications in addiction treatment. With proper use and adherence to recommendations, it is safe.
Safety profile of Disulfiram
- Registered and authorized medication
- Many years of clinical experience
- Predictable action and side effects
- Possibility of removal in emergency situations
Possible side effects of Esperal
- Metallic taste in mouth
- Fatigue, drowsiness (subsiding after adaptation)
- Headaches in first days
- Skin rash (rare, requires consultation)
Warning signals requiring urgent medical consultation
With symptoms of allergic reaction: facial swelling, breathing difficulties, severe rash. These are rare situations but require urgent intervention.
What happens after alcohol consumption with implant?
Reaction to alcohol with active implant is a deliberate therapeutic mechanism, but can be dangerous. This is why conscious decision about treatment and understanding consequences are so important.
Symptoms of disulfiram-alcohol reaction
After consuming even a small amount of alcohol (a few sips of beer) the following appears:
- Within 5-15 minutes: facial flushing, feeling of heat, burning skin
- Within 15-30 minutes: severe palpitations, shortness of breath, nausea, sweating
- Escalating: vomiting, headache, blood pressure drop, dizziness
- In severe cases: consciousness disturbances, convulsions, circulatory collapse
Reaction intensity depends on
- Amount of alcohol consumed – more alcohol = stronger reaction
- Time from implantation (reaction stronger at the beginning)
- Individual body sensitivity
- Overall health condition
- Medications taken
What to do in case of accidental alcohol consumption?
- DO NOT drink more alcohol – not a sip
- Lie down in a safe place
- Drink plenty of water
- Ask someone to monitor
- With severe symptoms – call emergency (112)
Definitely inform paramedics about the alcohol implant – this is important information for proper treatment.
Beware of hidden alcohol
Reaction can also be triggered by: certain medications (cough syrups, heart drops), mouthwashes, rum desserts, wine sauces, wine vinegar, perfumes and deodorants (upon contact with damaged skin).
How to prepare for Esperal implantation?
Proper preparation for the alcohol implant procedure is crucial for safety and therapy effectiveness. Below you will find detailed guidelines.
Required abstinence before alcohol implant
Before the procedure, a period of minimum 24-48 hours of complete abstinence from alcohol is required. In case of intensive drinking, earlier alcohol detoxification may be necessary, which we offer at Nasz Gabinet Wrocław. Detox ensures safe body cleansing under medical supervision and can be performed on the same day as implantation.
Documents and information required for the procedure
- Identity document (ID card)
- List of medications taken
- Information about chronic diseases
- Test results (if patient has them)
- Contact to a close person (for emergencies)
Location of Nasz Gabinet Wrocław clinic
Our clinic is located at Dworcowa 11b street in Wrocław, just 300 meters from the Main Railway Station. Easy access by tram, city bus, and PKP/PKS. Paid parking nearby. Convenient location in the city center makes it easy for patients from all over Lower Silesia to reach us.
Recommendations for Esperal implantation day
- Light meal 2-3 hours before the procedure
- Comfortable, loose clothing (not tight pants)
- Presence of accompanying person (recommended)
- Avoid driving after the procedure
- Reserve time for rest after returning home
Medications and substances prohibited before implantation
Before the procedure, do not take aspirin and other blood-thinning medications for at least 3 days (after consultation with attending physician). Do not drink alcohol even in minimal amounts – even non-alcoholic beer may contain trace amounts.
Does alcohol implant implantation hurt?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions by patients. The procedure itself is practically painless thanks to local anesthesia.
Sensations during alcohol implant implantation
The patient may only feel a prick when administering anesthesia – comparable to a standard injection. After the anesthetic takes effect, there is no pain during the incision or implant placement.
Discomfort in first days after implant
During the first 2-3 days may occur:
- Mild discomfort at the implantation site
- Slight swelling and redness
- Feeling of skin tension
These ailments are mild and temporary. If needed, regular painkillers (paracetamol) can be used. Ibuprofen and aspirin should be avoided due to their effect on blood clotting.
Wound healing time after Esperal implantation
The wound heals for about 7-14 days. Stitches are removed during a follow-up visit. The scar is small and becomes practically invisible over time.
How does the Esperal implantation procedure work in Wrocław?
The Esperal implantation procedure at Nasz Gabinet Wrocław follows an established medical protocol:
Stage 1: Medical consultation and implant qualification
The doctor conducts a detailed medical interview, assesses the patient's health condition, and discusses addiction history. Possible contraindications to the procedure are checked.
Stage 2: Anesthesia of implantation site
The implantation site is disinfected and anesthetized locally. The patient does not feel pain during the procedure.
Stage 3: Implantation of Esperal implant under skin
The doctor makes a small incision and places the medication capsule under the skin. The entire procedure takes 15-20 minutes.
Stage 4: Stitching and dressing application
The incision is closed with stitches or sterile strips. A sterile dressing is applied.
Stage 5: Post-procedure instructions and follow-up visit
The patient receives detailed instructions regarding wound care and a follow-up visit is scheduled in 7-10 days to remove stitches.
Wound care after implant – post-procedure recommendations
Proper care of the implantation site is important for proper healing and avoiding complications:
First 24 hours
- Do not wet the dressing
- Avoid physical exertion
- Rest in a position not pressing on the wound
First 7 days
- Daily dressing change – wound disinfection, new sterile dressing
- Avoid bathing in bathtub, pool, sauna
- Short shower allowed with wound protection
- Wearing loose, cotton clothing
- Avoid lifting weights over 5 kg
After stitch removal (7-10 days)
- Continue scar protection for another 2 weeks
- Gradual return to normal activity
- Avoid scar sun exposure for 2-3 months
When to contact the doctor?
Contact the clinic immediately if you notice: increasing pain, fever, wound discharge, significant swelling or redness extending beyond the immediate wound area.
Implant as part of comprehensive addiction treatment
At Nasz Gabinet Wrocław, the alcohol implant is part of a comprehensive model of alcohol addiction treatment. The implantation itself is just the beginning of the road to sobriety.
6 elements of effective treatment
- Detoxification – safe body cleansing from alcohol under medical supervision
- Pharmacotherapy – Esperal implant as abstinence support
- Individual psychotherapy – work on addiction causes
- Group therapy – experience exchange, social support
- Family support – education of loved ones, family therapy
- Relapse prevention – learning to recognize warning signals
Why comprehensive approach?
Addiction is a multifactorial disease – it has biological, psychological and social basis. Treating only one aspect (e.g., only pharmacological) gives much worse results than holistic approach.
At our clinic we offer packages combining various forms of therapy – from basic options to comprehensive VIP programs.
Anti-alcohol injection in Wrocław – does such a treatment method exist?
Patients often ask about anti-alcohol injection as an alternative to alcohol implant. We explain the facts: in Poland there is no registered preparation in injection form with aversive action on alcohol. The only available method of pharmacological Disulfiram implantation is alcohol implant – Disulfiram WZF preparation for subcutaneous implantation.
On the Polish market there are many offers advertising "anti-alcohol injections" or "alcohol-blocking injections". They should be approached with great caution – no such preparation has been authorized by the Office for Registration of Medicinal Products. Such offers may be fraud attempts or concern preparations with undocumented effectiveness and safety.
At Nasz Gabinet Wrocław we use only registered, original preparations of Disulfiram in alcohol implant form. This is the only proven and safe method of pharmacological abstinence support available in Poland. The implantation procedure is performed in sterile clinic conditions at Dworcowa 11b street in Wrocław.
Alcohol implant with home visit in Wrocław
Alcohol implant implantation with home visit to the patient is technically feasible, however we strongly advise against this option for safety reasons.
Esperal implantation procedure requires sterile conditions
The alcohol implant procedure is a full surgical procedure including:
- Skin and subcutaneous tissue incision – requires sterile operating field
- Reaching the muscle layer – deep tissue intervention
- Muscle fascia incision – precise surgical work
- Sterile Disulfiram preparation implantation – medication must remain sterile
- Wound closure with stitches – requires proper lighting and tools
Risk of complications in home conditions
Home conditions do not ensure adequate sterility. Even with apparent cleanliness, the risk of wound infection increases manifold. Possible complications include: implantation site infection, abscess, need for implant removal, sepsis in extreme cases.
Alcohol implant packages Wrocław – options and prices
At Nasz Gabinet Wrocław we offer various packages tailored to patients' needs and possibilities. Each package ensures professional care and procedure safety.
Basic alcohol implant – from 799 PLN
- Medical consultation before procedure
- Esperal implantation
- Dressing and materials
- Written post-procedure recommendations
- Phone contact for questions
Ideal for individuals who already have experience with implant and mainly need the procedure itself.
Standard alcohol implant – full post-operative care
- Everything from Basic package
- Follow-up visit after 7-10 days
- Stitch removal
- Introductory therapeutic consultation
- Educational materials about life in abstinence
Most popular choice – ensures full post-operative care.
VIP alcohol implant – extended package with psychiatric consultation
- Everything from Standard package
- Extended psychiatric consultation
- Individual therapy plan
- Priority visit appointments
- 24/7 phone support
- Flexible appointment hours
6h alcohol detox + Esperal implant – from 1899 PLN
- Alcohol detox (6 hours under medical supervision)
- Esperal implantation same day
- Comprehensive medical team care
- Time saving – two procedures one day
- Hydrating and vitamin infusion
Ideal for individuals who were unable to maintain abstinence before planned implantation.
12h alcohol detox + VIP implant – comprehensive package
- Extended alcohol detox (12 hours under medical supervision)
- VIP alcohol implant implantation
- Full body stabilization before procedure
- Extended psychiatric consultation
- Hydrating, vitamin and hepatoprotective infusion
- Individual further treatment plan
Recommended for individuals with longer period of intensive drinking requiring full stabilization before implantation.
Exclusive package – highest standard of alcohol addiction treatment
- Full detox + implant package
- Extended therapeutic program
- Follow-up visits for 3 months
- Psychological consultations
- Family therapy (one session)
- Highest standard of care
Why choose Nasz Gabinet Wrocław?
Nasz Gabinet is a network of specialized facilities dealing with addiction treatment throughout Poland. In Wrocław at Dworcowa 11b street we offer comprehensive help to individuals struggling with alcohol addiction.
Experienced team of specialists
- Psychiatrists specializing in addictions
- Certified addiction therapists
- Clinical psychologists
- Empathetic medical staff
- Many years of experience in alcoholism treatment
Comprehensive treatment offer
- Alcohol and drug detox (also with home visit)
- Esperal alcohol implants with various duration of action
- Addiction pharmacotherapy (Nalmefen, Naltrexone, Acamprosate, Anticol)
- Individual and group psychotherapy
- Behavioral addiction therapy (gambling, computer)
- Therapy for families of addicted individuals
Comfort and full discretion
- Modern clinic in Wrocław center
- Excellent location – close to railway station
- Discreet, intimate atmosphere
- Flexible working hours – also weekends
- Possibility of treatment with home visit
- No queues – quick appointments
Thousands of satisfied patients
For years we have been helping addicted individuals return to normal life. Our reviews on Google and medical portals confirm effectiveness and professionalism.
Book appointment today
Call: 880 808 880 | Address: Dworcowa 11b, 50-456 Wrocław
The first step is the hardest – but you don't have to take it alone. We are here to help. Anonymity guaranteed.
Alcohol implant Wrocław - we serve all of Lower Silesia
Our clinic in Wrocław serves patients from the entire Lower Silesian Voivodeship and surrounding areas. Thanks to the excellent location at the Main Railway Station, it's easy to reach us from any city in the region.
Locations with good access to Wrocław
- Wałbrzych
- Jelenia Góra
- Legnica
- Świdnica
- Kłodzko
- Oleśnica
- Lubin
- Dzierżoniów
- Bolesławiec
- Głogów
Easy access by public transport (PKP, PKS), car (access from A4 and A8 highways) and trams and city buses from every district of Wrocław. Paid parking near the clinic.
