Sublocade is a type of Medication-Assisted Treatment and prescription medication used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD).
For individuals struggling with opioid addiction, Sublocade can be a key component of a comprehensive treatment plan. At Peachtree Detox, we offer comprehensive detox programs in Atlanta that include the use of Sublocade, if clinically appropriate.
Peachtree Detox is a premier provider of addiction treatment services and detox programs in Atlanta, Georgia. If you or someone you love is in need of professional care, reach out to us now.
Sublocade is a form of buprenorphine administered as a once-monthly shot.
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which means it binds to opioid receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same high as full opioids. Sublocade is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) and is slowly released over 30 days, providing continuous medication to help stabilize individuals in recovery.
This extended-release mechanism ensures that patients receive a consistent dose of buprenorphine throughout the month, reducing the need for daily medication.
Sublocade is primarily used to treat moderate to severe opioid use disorder and those undergoing opioid detox. It is often prescribed as part of a Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program, which combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. MAT has been shown to improve recovery outcomes, reduce the risk of relapse, and help individuals achieve long-term sobriety.
Sublocade is usually prescribed to individuals who have already started treatment with buprenorphine and have stabilized on a daily dose of an oral version, such as Suboxone. Once stabilized, Sublocade helps maintain this balance by delivering a consistent dose each month.
Sublocade is effective in treating opioid addiction. However, it can cause side effects, some of which may be serious.
Common side effects include:
In more rare cases, Sublocade can lead to more severe side effects, such as:
If you experience any severe side effects or symptoms of an allergic reaction, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
Both Sublocade and Vivitrol are injectable medications used in treating opioid use disorder, but they function differently.
Sublocade contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, while Vivitrol contains naltrexone, an opioid antagonist.
Sublocade is generally more suited for individuals who are still experiencing cravings or withdrawal symptoms, whereas Vivitrol is often used after detoxification when a person has completely stopped using opioids.
Suboxone and Sublocade both contain buprenorphine, but they differ in their administration and duration of action.
Sublocade can be more convenient for individuals who struggle with adhering to daily medication schedules or are at risk of misuse. Suboxone, on the other hand, offers more flexibility for those who prefer daily control over their medication intake.
After the first injection, Sublocade stays in the body for approximately 30 days, gradually releasing buprenorphine into the bloodstream. The effects of the shot are long-lasting, and the medication may remain detectable in your system for up to a month or longer, depending on factors like metabolism, dosage, and overall health.
Understanding Sublocade’s Extended-Release Mechanism
Sublocade is designed as a depot injection that forms a solid mass under the skin after administration. This solid depot slowly dissolves over time, providing a continuous release of buprenorphine for approximately one month. This extended-release system ensures consistent medication levels in your bloodstream without the need for daily dosing.
Detection Timeframes by Testing Method
The length of time Sublocade remains detectable varies depending on the type of test used:
Factors Affecting How Long Sublocade Stays in Your System
Several individual factors influence how quickly your body processes and eliminates Sublocade:
Sublocade is specifically FDA-approved for the treatment of opioid use disorder and is not indicated for alcohol addiction. The medication contains buprenorphine, an opioid partial agonist that works by binding to the same brain receptors affected by opioids like heroin, fentanyl, and prescription painkillers.
Why Sublocade Isn’t Used for Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol use disorder involves different brain pathways and neurotransmitter systems than opioid addiction. Buprenorphine, the active ingredient in Sublocade, does not effectively address the brain changes caused by chronic alcohol use. Using Sublocade for alcohol addiction alone would not provide the targeted treatment needed for recovery.
Dual Diagnosis Considerations
Some individuals may struggle with both opioid and alcohol use disorders simultaneously. In these cases, Sublocade may be prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the opioid addiction while separate interventions target alcohol use. This requires careful medical supervision and coordination between treatment providers.
If you’re seeking treatment for alcohol addiction, it’s important to work with healthcare providers who specialize in addiction medicine to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your specific situation.
Sublocade has been shown to be highly effective in supporting long-term recovery from opioid addiction.
Clinical studies indicate that individuals treated with Sublocade experienced significantly reduced cravings and opioid use, with many achieving sustained sobriety.
As with any treatment, success rates improve when combined with comprehensive care, including counseling and other behavioral therapies.
The length of time a person stays on Sublocade varies depending on individual needs and treatment progress.
Many individuals remain on Sublocade for several months to a year or longer, depending on how they respond to treatment.
The cost of Sublocade can vary significantly depending on your insurance coverage, location, and the treatment facility providing the injection.
Average Costs Without Insurance
Without insurance coverage, Sublocade can be expensive:
These costs typically include both the medication and the administration fee for the injection.
Insurance Coverage
Many insurance plans, including Medicaid and private insurance, may cover Sublocade when prescribed for opioid use disorder. Coverage varies by plan, and some may require:
Did you know most major health insurance plans with out-of-network benefits can help cover most of the costs associated with our program? Click below to find out your coverage and treatment options for our detox centers in Atlanta, Georgia.
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