Sublocade is the first extended-release formulation of buprenorphine, a medication that is used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs across Florida to treat opioid use disorder. If you or a loved one are struggling with opioid addiction, Sublocade may be able to help.
Sublocade is a once-monthly injection of buprenorphine. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist/antagonist that binds to and partially activates opioid receptors without causing a release of dopamine. This chemical reaction helps reduce the severity of opioid withdrawal symptoms and alleviate drug cravings.
Sublocade’s extended-release mechanism allows the medication to slowly release into the bloodstream over the course of one month, keeping a stable dose of buprenorphine in the body the entire time.
The Sublocade shot can only be administered by a licensed healthcare provider. Sublocade is a subcutaneous injection that is administered just below the skin–usually on the patient’s stomach or abdomen. Shortly after the injection, a small bump may form under the skin. This bump is known as a depot. The depot gradually releases a steady dose of buprenorphine for a month at a time.
Buprenorphine, the only active ingredient in Sublocade, treats opioid dependence by reducing drug cravings for up to a month. Even though buprenorphine can also reduce the severity of opioid withdrawal, Sublocade is not using during detox. Instead, Sublocade is intended for patients who have already been on a daily dose of buprenorphine for at least seven days.
When patients first enter treatment, they will undergo medically-assisted detox with an alternative buprenorphine product, such as Suboxone or Subutex. After one week, patients may transition over to Sublocade.
Sublocade is not intended to be used as the only treatment for opioid use disorder. Instead, it is meant to be combined with behavioral therapy, counseling, and peer support. When used correctly, Sublocade can eliminate drug cravings and allow patients to focus entirely on their therapy sessions and personal recovery.
Do not take Sublocade without a prescription or if it is not being administered by a licensed healthcare provider. If you and your doctor decide Sublocade may be right for you, here are some questions you’ll want to ask:
If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with Sublocade, contact the Suboxone Treatment Clinic in Palm Beach County, Florida today.
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