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Sublocade Injections
Sublocade® (Buprenorphine ER) Injections for Addiction Recovery
Recovering from addiction can be tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. At the Center of Excellence, we combine compassionate care with evidence-based medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to help people regain stability. One option we offer is Sublocade®, a long-acting injection given once a month for adults with opioid use disorder (OUD).
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What Are Sublocade Injections?
Sublocade is a subcutaneous injection that releases buprenorphine steadily over a month. Unlike daily pills, it helps keep medication levels consistent and reduces the ‘ups and downs’ of other treatments.
A certified healthcare professional administers the injection just under the skin of the abdomen. It is not available as a take-home medication and can only be given by trained providers as part of a restricted program. Sublocade is used as part of a comprehensive MAT program that also includes counseling and behavioral support.
Who it’s for: Adults with moderate-to-severe OUD who have been stabilized on daily transmucosal buprenorphine (e.g., Suboxone®) for at least 7 days before the first injection.
How Do Sublocade Injections Work?
Buprenorphine, the active ingredient in Sublocade, helps reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms that people often feel when stopping opioids. This makes it easier to focus on recovery, attend therapy, and rebuild daily routines.
Since Sublocade injections are given once a month, patients do not need to take a daily dose, which lowers the risk of missed medication or relapse.
Do Sublocade Injections Work?
Yes. Clinical trials and real-world studies show that Sublocade is effective in helping people maintain recovery. By maintaining steady medication levels throughout the month, Sublocade helps patients stay engaged in counseling, therapy, and other aspects of recovery.
Steady Support, Fewer Daily Decisions
Monthly dosing helps reduce the risk of missed medication and keeps you focused on recovery activities—therapy, routines, and rebuilding stability.
Part of a Complete MAT Program
Most patients begin with oral buprenorphine to establish dose, then transition to monthly injections—paired with counseling and skills-based support.
Monthly Routine That Fits Your Life
A predictable schedule simplifies treatment—minimizing disruptions at work, school, and home while keeping you engaged in care.
Safety Considerations for MAT with Sublocade
Sublocade is available only through a certified healthcare provider as part of a special program due to the risk of misuse. It is not dispensed at regular pharmacies.
Discuss all medical conditions and medications with your provider (including liver or kidney concerns, mental health conditions, or medicines that may interact). Avoid alcohol and other sedatives unless your provider approves.
Common side effects can include constipation, headache, nausea, fatigue, or injection-site pain. Rare but serious risks include breathing problems, allergic reactions, or liver issues. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, speak with your clinician about risks and alternatives.
Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Your clinician will determine if Sublocade is appropriate for you.
Sublocade Injections vs. Suboxone: What’s the Difference?
Sublocade and Suboxone both contain buprenorphine, but they differ in how they’re taken: Suboxone is typically a daily film or tablet, while Sublocade is a once-monthly injection. Monthly dosing can help people who struggle with daily medication or prefer a simpler routine.
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