Reviewed byRinat Zhumabekov, MDAddiction psychiatrist, experience 21 years · updated 8 Nov 2026
Key facts
- ICD-10 code
- F10.2
- Who provides care
- An addiction physician in a treatment room
- Where
- At the clinic in Astana, under sterile conditions
- Duration
- The procedure takes 20–40 minutes; the period of effect is discussed with the doctor
- Anonymity
- No state registry, medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- When it is urgent
- If there is a reaction to alcohol — chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting — call 103 or 112 immediately
- Outcome
- Support for sobriety for the chosen period as part of comprehensive treatment
What you should know
An implant is often considered the most “reliable” option, and relatives hope it will solve the problem in one go. We explain honestly: an implant helps maintain sobriety for a certain period if the person wants it, but it does not cure the addiction. It is one of the forms of alcohol “coding” (a treatment widely used in Kazakhstan and CIS countries). This page is for the family: how an implant works, who it suits, how to prepare your loved one, what to know about the risks, and how to support them after the procedure without becoming a watchman.
In Astana, many people choose an implant because it does not require regular visits: this is convenient with a demanding work schedule, rotational shifts and business trips. But the procedure is a minor surgical intervention, and preparation is mandatory. The Narcology 24 doctor sees patients at a clinic that is easy to reach from both the left and right banks, as well as from Kosshy and Koyandy. The first consultation for relatives can be held online.
When an implant may suit your loved one
- the person has decided themselves not to drink and wants “insurance” for difficult moments
- regular doctor’s visits are hard for them because of work or business trips
- there have already been relapses after attempts to quit without medical support
- they have been sober for the required period and are ready for a workup with an addiction doctor
- there is no serious heart, liver or kidney disease and no mental disorder
- the person understands the risks and is ready to sign informed consent
- the family is ready to support sobriety, not just wait for the implant to work
If heavy drinking has lasted more than two or three days, or there is shaking, vomiting, blood-pressure spikes or insomnia, you need a doctor rather than stopping alone. Phone advice is free. For seizures, confusion or hallucinations call 103 or 112.
How an implant works and why preparation is needed
A long-acting medication is placed under the skin. Depending on the drug group, it either makes drinking alcohol extremely unpleasant and dangerous — because alcohol breakdown products build up, causing a hot flush, a racing heart and a drop in blood pressure — or reduces the craving for alcohol and the pleasure from it by blocking receptors. The person knows this in advance, and it helps them resist the first drink.
Because the reaction to alcohol with some implants can be severe, checks of the heart, liver and kidneys and a period of sobriety are mandatory, so that no alcohol remains in the body. A “quick” implant right after a binge is dangerous. In Astana, the winter holiday season and office parties are a time of higher relapse risk, so it is worth discussing with the doctor in advance how to get through such periods.
How an implant procedure works: steps for the patient and the family
First comes a consultation — for the family, it can be online: the doctor explains what an implant is, which medications and restrictions there are, and how to prepare your loved one. Then the patient comes for an in-person appointment: an examination, tests, an ECG when indicated, and a check of the sobriety period. After the informed consent form is signed, a small incision is made under local anesthesia, the implant is inserted, and stitches or a dressing are applied. The doctor explains wound care and the rules to follow.
An implant is not placed during intoxication or a binge, with serious heart and vascular disease, liver or kidney disease, decompensated diabetes, mental disorders, pregnancy or an allergy to the medication, or without the patient’s consent. If after the implant the person drinks and feels unwell — chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, a pounding heart — call 103 or 112 immediately.
How we help
Workup before the implant
The doctor carries out an examination and orders blood tests and, if necessary, an ECG and other investigations. Chronic illnesses, medications, allergies and the sobriety period are discussed. It is important for relatives to tell the doctor what they know: people sometimes conceal recent drinking episodes, and this can be dangerous.
Choosing the medication and the period
Implants of different groups are used: those that sensitize the body to alcohol, or opioid receptor antagonists that reduce cravings. The choice depends on the patient’s health, motivation and preferences. The period of effect is discussed in advance. We do not give specific doses and do not promise sobriety “forever” — that depends on the person.
The procedure itself
The implant is placed in a treatment room under sterile conditions and local anesthesia. It usually takes 20–40 minutes, after which the person can go home. For several days, the wound needs to be watched, kept dry and not strained. Redness, severe pain or swelling are reasons to see the doctor at once. Stitches are removed as the doctor instructs.
Support after the implant
At Narcology 24, the procedure is complemented by consultations with an addiction doctor and a psychotherapist: how to get through cravings, stress and holidays without alcohol. It is important for loved ones not to test “whether the implant works,” not to provoke the person and not to drink in front of them. Praise them for sober days, and if you see signs of relapse, calmly suggest calling the doctor.
Myths and facts
MythAn implant guarantees sobriety forever
FactAn implant works for a limited period and helps the person hold on, but it does not change the reasons for drinking. The result depends on motivation, psychotherapy and family support. Promises of “forever” are dishonest.
MythYou can give someone an implant secretly, disguised as another procedure
FactNo. An implant is placed only with written informed consent. The person must know they have received an implant; otherwise, drinking alcohol could end in a severe bodily reaction.
MythYou can “override” an implant or take it out yourself
FactAttempts to “test” an implant with alcohol or to remove it yourself are dangerous: a severe reaction, a wound infection. If the person decides to stop treatment, this is discussed with the doctor, not done at home.
How a home visit works
- Call or message usThe dispatcher answers 24/7 and in 3–5 minutes checks the person's condition, age, how long the drinking or use has lasted, chronic conditions and the address. No surname needed.
- The doctor sets offAn addiction doctor or psychiatrist comes with equipment and medication. Travel time depends on the district — usually within an hour. If inpatient care or an ambulance is needed, we'll say so straight away.
- Examination and treatmentBlood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, blood sugar if needed and a neurological check. Then an IV drip or other treatment as indicated, 1–3 hours.
- A plan for the next daysAdvice for the family on what to do overnight and tomorrow, phone follow-up and a repeat visit if needed.
- Further treatmentCoding, psychotherapy, rehab or psychiatric follow-up — once the acute state has passed and the person is ready.
Prices in Astana
| Consultation and assessment before the procedure | 10 000 ₸ |
| Procedure (standard) | 50 000 ₸ |
| Procedure (extended) | 80 000 ₸ |
| Phone advice | free |
The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.
Where to get help
In astana you can get help at home, at one of our two branches (6 Auezova St., office 37, Astana, 176 Imanova St., Astana) or online if you need a consultation rather than a procedure. The dispatcher answers 24/7 and will tell you straight away which option is safest.
Confidential and private
in Astana our doctor can come in ordinary clothes in an unmarked car. Treatment documents are given only to the patient. If you need a certificate or sick note, this is discussed separately and only at your request.
Questions and answers
How long does one need to stay sober before an implant?
The period of sobriety is set by the doctor depending on the medication and the person’s health — usually at least several days, and sometimes longer. If the person is currently on a binge, detox is needed first. Placing an implant while alcohol is still in the body can cause a severe reaction.
Does getting an implant hurt?
The procedure is carried out under local anesthesia, so discomfort is minimal. Afterward, there may be some discomfort at the incision site for a few days. The doctor will explain how to care for the wound and when to come for a check-up. If there is redness or a fever, see the doctor right away.
What happens if you drink after an implant?
It depends on the medication. With sensitizing implants, a hot flush, a racing heart, breathlessness and a drop in blood pressure are possible, and this can be life-threatening. With antagonists, alcohol has no pleasurable effect, but the strain on the body remains. If the person feels unwell, call 103 or 112.
Can an elderly person have an implant?
The decision is made after a workup. With heart disease, hypertension or diabetes, the risk of a reaction to alcohol is higher, so the doctor may suggest another method. Age in itself is not a contraindication, but it calls for an especially thorough check.
How can the family support the person after an implant?
Create a sober environment: do not keep alcohol at home, avoid gatherings with drinking, and plan weekends around walks and family activities. Tell them you are proud of their decision. If you are exhausted yourself, see a psychologist — relatives need support too.
Will anyone at work find out about the implant?
No. The procedure is carried out anonymously, without registration with the state dispensary. Information about treatment is protected by medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System.” The small scar is usually not visible under clothing, and the site is chosen together with the patient.
Where do doctors visit in Astana and where are the branches?
Home visits cover all city districts and nearby settlements, 24/7. Appointments at two branches: 6 Auezova St., office 37, Astana and 176 Imanova St., Astana. Phone in Astana: +7 (700) 309-30-17.
Sources and methodology
This page was prepared by the Narcology 24 medical editorial team based on:
- International Classification of Diseases ICD-10 and ICD-11, World Health Organization
- Clinical diagnosis and treatment protocols of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- NICE (UK) guidelines on alcohol and drug misuse and mental health conditions
- WHO recommendations on the treatment of substance use disorders
This information is for reference only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Editorial policy
