Participants gather for the launch of the Naltrexone Hydrochloride Implant in Vientiane on Wednesday.

New implant offers hope for lasting recovery from drug addiction

People battling drug addiction in Laos now have access to a new treatment that can prevent relapse, reduce cravings, and help them stay committed to recovery.
The Naltrexone Hydrochloride Implant, launched on August 13 at the Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane, offers long-term protection by gradually releasing medication under the skin to block the effects of opioids. Health experts say this gives patients a better chance to rebuild their lives without constant fear of relapse.

Director of Mungmisai Pharmaceutical Sole Co., Ltd., Mr Soulixay Laothang.

Dr Khamsay Detleusay.

The implant, registered in Laos on March 7, 2025, under number 01I5859/25, was developed by Shenzhen ScienCare Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. and is exclusively imported and distributed by Mungmisai Pharmaceutical Sole Co., Ltd.
It has been approved by the National Medical Products Administration in China as an advanced treatment for substance use disorders.
Head of the Department of Treatment and Rehabilitation, Dr Khamsay Detleusay, chaired the launch, which brought together representatives from the Department of Food and Drugs, the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Public Security, and leading hospitals including Mahosot, Mittaphab, Setthathirathl, 103, and 5 Maysa.

Also present were officials from the Food and Drug Research Centre, the Department of Health, all nine districts of Vientiane, the National Anti-Drug Committee, Lao People’s Revolutionary Youth Union, Lao Women’s Union, University of Health Sciences, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the Vientiane Labour Department, and drug treatment and rehabilitation centres in Bolikhamxay, Savannakhet, Champasak, Oudomxay, Xayabouly and Vientiane provinces. A medical team from the People’s Republic of China also attended.
Chairman of ScienCare Pharma’s Medical Division, Dr Zhijun Sun, said the implant was designed to improve patient adherence to therapy and provide consistent, long-lasting support against drug cravings.
ScienCare Pharma is a global pharmaceutical company focused on developing treatments for substance use disorders.
At the Somsanga Drug Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre alone, about 1,900 people are admitted for treatment each year, with an annual budget of 2-3 billion kip. Health officials believe the new implant could help reduce the number of repeat admissions by giving patients a stronger safeguard against relapse.
The fight against drug abuse remains a national priority. In 2024, police recorded 7,350 crimes across Laos, up by 640 from the previous year, with most offences linked to drugs.
With this innovation now available, doctors and treatment centres across Laos are expected to have a more effective tool to help patients escape the cycle of addiction and move towards stable, drug-free lives.

By Advertorial desk
(Latest Update August 14 , 2025)