New £850 pellet ‘aids’ treatment for alcoholism

A private clinic in London has developed an £850 pellet that “helps to combat alcoholism”.

The pellets release a drug which suppresses the “buzz” felt after consuming alcohol

The Abstinence Centre claims the treatment is not a “magic cure”, and instead works as an aid to treating alcohol addiction.

The pellets are implanted into the lower abdomen and release a dose of Naltrexone into the bloodstream – a drug which suppresses the “buzz” felt after consuming alcohol.

Dr Vince Gradillas, consultant psychiatrist and medical director of The Abstinence Centre, told The Irish Post: “Addictions are complex disorders, often accompanied by mental ill health, social, vocational or other problems caused by or predisposing to misuse of substances that also need addressing.

“Opiate antagonists only block and do not actively provide addicts with any form of immediate reward or resolution to their distress.”

The pellets have a success rate of up to 40% and last for three months before a new one must be inserted.

The treatment can be taken for up to 18 months.

Brendan Quinn, commercial director of The Abstinence Centre in London, said: “For many people, it’s an affordable intervention.”

Last year, a pill that suppresses the urge to consume alcohol became available on prescription in the UK for people who think they drink too much.