Medication assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating substance use disorder (SUD) by combining medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. One commonly used medication is an extended-release formulation administered by injection once a month. Known by the brand name Sublocade, this medication steadily delivers its active ingredient, buprenorphine, over time to help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.  

If you’re looking for a medication assisted treatment clinic, contact BrightView. Call 888.501.9865 to schedule an appointment or learn more about Sublocade and other MAT options.  

What Is Sublocade® and Is It Right for Me? 

Medication for addiction treatment can use one or multiple medications to help stabilize brain function and reduce the neurological and behavioral effects of substance use disorder. One effective medication is buprenorphine, available under brand names like Sublocade. It is one part of a comprehensive MAT program that addresses a patient’s medical, social, and psychological needs. 

Sublocade is an extended-release medication injected by a healthcare professional once every month. It is used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD) as part of a medication assisted treatment program. Sublocade contains buprenorphine which helps minimize withdrawal symptoms and decreases cravings. 

How Sublocade® Might Fit into Your Treatment Plan 

While most buprenorphine regimens are administered orally each day, Sublocade is a once-per-month injection. The extended-release option means that patients don’t have to take medication every day, enabling them to spend more time focusing on the mental, emotional, and social aspects of recovery. A healthcare professional injects the Sublocade shot into the abdominal area, and over time, it steadily releases buprenorphine to help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Sublocade 

The following are answers to some of the most common questions about Sublocade: 

Does Sublocade Stop Withdrawal Symptoms? 

Yes, Sublocade helps prevent cravings and withdrawal symptoms that may happen when you stop taking opioids, including prescription pain relievers, such as codeine, hydrocodone, morphine, and oxycodone, as well as illegal substances, including heroin and synthetic opioids like fentanyl.  Anyone on a methadone maintenance program will need to transfer to an oral buprenorphine product for at least seven days before starting treatment with Sublocade to prevent rapid withdrawal symptoms. 

Can Sublocade Be Misused 

Unlike oral medication, Sublocade cannot be misused. As it is an extended-release medication, the patient should receive it at a sustained level for about a month. This means the patient is less likely to miss taking the medication or experience breakthrough cravings due to a lapse in treatment. For patients who travel frequently or don’t have safe places to store medication tablets or films, the injectable buprenorphine option may minimize risks. 

Where Is Sublocade Injected? 

Sublocade is administered by a medical professional just beneath the skin in your abdomen. subcutaneously. An extended-release medication, it turns into a solid gel once injected. As a result, it will never be delivered via an intramuscular or intravenous injection. The medication will gradually break down and enter the body over one month, so no fillers or particles are left in your system. 

What’s Involved in Sublocade Treatment? 

As with any MAT program, you’ll be treated through a combination of medication and counseling to address both the physical and psychological aspects of SUD.  Your physician may prescribe sublingual buprenorphine films for daily use during the first week of treatment while you wait for Sublocade to have an opportunity to take effect. After that, it’s only necessary to receive a Sublocade injection once a month. This gives you one less thing to worry about, making it easier to focus on your recovery. 

How Long Does Sublocade Stay in Your System? 

Sublocade will not appear in standard opioid drug tests that rely on urine samples. However, specialized testing can help determine if the patient is taking buprenorphine through the use of saliva, hair, blood, and sweat. Generally speaking, Sublocade will be detectable in the body for up to six months after the last injection. 

Call BrightView Today to Find a MAT Clinic Near You 

If you’re wondering where to get a Sublocade injection, contact BrightView today. Our experienced team can help you find the nearest MAT clinic and provide support and guidance throughout your recovery journey.  

Contact us today at 888.501.9865 or online to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment at a location near you.