Sublocade

What is Sublocade?

Subolocade contains a medication called extended-release buprenorphine. It’s an injection used to treat opioid addiction that may result when taking one or more of the following substances:

• Hydrocodone
• Codeine
• Morphine
• Heroin
• Oxycodone
• Fentanyl
• Methadone
• Oxymorphone

While a doctor may prescribe some medicines as a way to reduce pain, other opioids are illegal substances.

Sublocade helps treat adults struggling with moderate to severe opioid dependency. To ensure the utmost safety and effectiveness, your doctor must inject it for you.

Sublocade is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes behavioral health counseling. It increases your chances of successfully breaking an opioid addiction. 

Is Sublocade right for me?

Your Davidson River Recovery specialist determines if you’re a candidate for Sublocade after discussing your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle habits, and opioid use. They complete a psychiatric evaluation and may recommend urine testing, blood tests, or other diagnostic tests. Tell your provider about any medications you’re taking.

Signs of addiction may include:

• Interpersonal relationship challenges
• Needing to feel high
• Withdrawal symptoms when not taking opioids
• Higher incidence of accidents
• Poor decision-making
• Needing to use more and more of a substance
• Cravings for opioids
• Poor job or school performance
• Trouble with the law

You may be a candidate for Sublocade if Suboxone®, a medicine you dissolve under your tongue, hasn’t worked to reduce withdrawal symptoms. Common opioid withdrawal symptoms include sweating, shaking, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, and anxiety. 

Your Davidson River Recovery provider tailors a treatment plan that’s best suited for you. 

What should I expect when undergoing Sublocade treatment?

During treatment, simply see your Davidson River Recovery specialist as needed to receive  injections. You might need a dose once monthly. They place the injection just under the skin in your stomach. Avoid taking certain medications if asked, don’t use alcohol, and attend therapy sessions with your provider to increase your chances of long-term success.

It’s important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery or completing similar activities until you discover more about how Sublocade affects you. 

Possible side effects of the medicine include drowsiness, slowed reaction times, dizziness, or lightheadedness, particularly during the first few days after your injection or after a dosage change. Because of this, it’s important to make arrangements for someone to drive you home.

Follow up with your provider virtually or in person for therapy sessions or to receive your next Sublocade injection. Your specialist alters the dosage whenever needed.

Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation at Davidson River Recovery by phone or online today to determine if Sublocade is right for you.