Key Points About Sublocade

Sublocade is a one of many prescription medications that can be used in the treatment of opioid dependence, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and psychosocial support. It is specifically designed for adults with moderate to severe opioid use disorder. Here are some key points about it:

1. Active Ingredient: Sublocade contains buprenorphine, which is the same active ingredient found in Suboxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that helps to reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
2. Form and Administration: Unlike Suboxone, which is taken daily in tablet or film form, Sublocade is administered as a monthly injection. The medication is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) in the abdominal area and forms a solid deposit, or depot, from which buprenorphine is slowly released over time.
3. Mechanism of Action: The buprenorphine in Sublocade activates the brain's opioid receptors, but to a much lesser degree than full agonists like heroin or methadone. This action helps to alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid addiction. The slow and steady release of buprenorphine from the depot maintains stable levels of the medication in the body, aiding in treatment adherence and reducing the burden of daily dosing.
4. Benefits: The once-a-month injection can be more convenient for patients and may help with adherence to the treatment plan. It also reduces the risk of misuse, diversion, or accidental exposure to the medication, which can be concerns with daily-dose forms.
5. Prescription and Supervision: Sublocade should only be administered by a healthcare provider, and it's typically prescribed only after a patient has initiated medication-assisted treatment with a transmucosal buprenorphine-containing product (like Suboxone) for a minimum period to ensure tolerability of buprenorphine.
6. Considerations and Side Effects: As with any medication, Sublocade can have side effects, including potential injection site reactions, constipation, nausea, headache, vomiting, increased liver enzymes, fatigue, and dizziness, among others. It's important for patients to discuss their medical history and potential risks with their healthcare provider.