shutterstock_110115248_1.jpegSublocade, a monthly injectable medication for opioid addiction management, has gained popularity in recent years. This treatment is crucial for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) as it offers sustained medication release, effectively reducing opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings over an extended period. Sublocade is especially beneficial for patients seeking a consistent and reliable treatment option, enhancing adherence compared to daily medications. Additionally, it is essential not only for individuals but also for preventing neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome in newborns, which can occur when pregnant women are untreated or inadequately treated.

Dr. James Cardi  specializes in managing opioid treatment and can help patients navigate their recovery journey with Sublocade, ensuring they receive personalized care and support for long-term success.

What is Sublocade?

Sublocade, produced by the same company as Suboxone, is an extended-release injection of buprenorphine used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Unlike Suboxone, which includes both buprenorphine and naloxone, Sublocade contains only buprenorphine. This once-monthly injection is specifically designed to deliver a steady, controlled dose of buprenorphine, effectively managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with opioid use disorder.

How Does It Work?

The active ingredient, buprenorphine, is a partial opioid agonist that binds to the same receptors in the brain as opioids but without causing the intense euphoria or harmful effects linked to opioid abuse. This mechanism helps treat opioid dependence by alleviating withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings, allowing individuals to focus on recovery and improve their quality of life.

How Is Sublocade Taken?

Sublocade, approved by the Food and Drug Administration, is administered monthly by a healthcare professional as a subcutaneous injection in the abdominal region. This means the medication is injected just under the skin, rather than directly into a vein, allowing it to be gradually absorbed into the bloodstream over time.

The standard initial dose of Sublocade is 300 mg, administered once a month for the first two months (the induction phase). After the induction phase, the maintenance dose is typically reduced to 100 mg per month. However, some patients may require a higher maintenance dose, depending on their individual response and needs. Dr. Cardi will determine the appropriate dosage. To achieve the best results, it is crucial to follow the complete treatment program and always talk with your doctor about any concerns or adjustments needed in your treatment.

Comparing Sublocade to Other Treatments

Traditional opioid treatments often involve daily medications like methadone or sublingual buprenorphine. While effective, these treatments require strict adherence, which can be difficult for some individuals. Sublocade, on the other hand, offers patients several key benefits, including:

  • Long-term Effectiveness: Sublocade provides a consistent release of medication over a month, ensuring continuous management of opioid dependence symptoms and reducing the risk of relapse.
  • Reduced Frequency of Dosing: As a once-monthly injection, Sublocade removes the need for daily medication, allowing for an easier and simpler treatment regimen.
  • Improved Compliance: The monthly administration by healthcare professionals improves adherence to the treatment plan, as patients are less likely to miss doses compared to daily oral medications.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: By effectively managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, Sublocade allows individuals to focus on recovery and engage more fully in their daily activities without the constant interference of opioid dependence.
  • Discreet and Private Treatment: With no need for daily medication, Sublocade offers a more private and less conspicuous treatment option, which can be a significant advantage for individuals concerned about the stigma associated with opioid dependence.
  • Stabilized Recovery Process: Sublocade's consistent medication release helps stabilize the recovery process, allowing individuals to progress in their journey without the highs and lows often associated with traditional treatments.

Who Can Benefit from Sublocade?

Sublocade may be particularly beneficial for a variety of individuals dealing with opioid use disorder. Here are some groups that might find this treatment especially advantageous:

  • Patients Stabilized on Buprenorphine: Individuals who have already stabilized on a form of buprenorphine for at least seven days can transition to Sublocade for a more long-term treatment approach. The requirement for prior stabilization ensures that patients are well-adjusted to the medication, making the transition smoother.
  • Patients with a History of Relapse:  Sublocade's consistent dosing can help individuals who have struggled with relapse in the past by reducing cravings and preventing withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to stay on track with their recovery.
  • Individuals Preferring Less Frequent Dosing: Patients who find daily medication regimes burdensome or challenging can benefit from the monthly administration of Sublocade. This reduces the need for daily adherence, promoting a simpler and more manageable treatment schedule.
  • Patients Struggling with Compliance: For those who have had difficulty maintaining regular adherence to daily medication, the structured administration of Sublocade by healthcare professionals can significantly improve treatment compliance and outcomes.
  • People Concerned About Privacy: Sublocade is suitable for individuals who are worried about the stigma associated with opioid dependence treatments. As a monthly injection administered in a clinical setting, it offers a discreet and private alternative to daily oral medications.
  • Individuals Working Toward Recovery: Sublocade is a useful tool for anyone committed to overcoming opioid dependence and looking for an effective long-term solution. It can help individuals focus on their recovery process, leading to improved overall quality of life.

Discover Lasting Relief from Opioid Addiction!

Sublocade is a monthly injection that revolutionizes opioid dependence treatment by providing stable, continuous medication release. This enhances adherence, privacy, and symptom management, ultimately improving recovery effectiveness and quality of life. 

Talk to Dr. Cardi and discover how Sublocade empowers patients to maintain their recovery journey. With ongoing support and an effective treatment plan, you can achieve lasting relief from opioid addiction and take back control of your life!

To learn more and take that important step toward recovery, book an appointment  for opioid treatment with Dr. James Cardi  today.