There are several treatment programs and medications available to treat opioid use disorder, and Sublocade treatment for addiction is one option available at CATC. At Canadian Addiction Treatment Centres, we create individualized treatment plans to support your recovery, and Sublocade is one of the Health Canada-approved medications available at select CATC centres.
This page covers what Sublocade is, how it works, who it tends to be appropriate for, and how to find out if it’s available near you.
What Is Sublocade®?
Sublocade is one medication available for treating opioid addiction. It is an injectable form of buprenorphine. Sublocade injections are subcutaneous, or under the skin. The medication gradually releases the drug for 28 days. This process effectively manages opioid withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings over the long term.
Sublocade injections should be used as part of a complete Sublocade treatment program that includes counseling and other care services.
How Does Sublocade® Work & What Does It Do?
Sublocade is a form of buprenorphine. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist prescribed to treat opioid use disorder for almost two decades. As a partial opioid agonist, this medication blocks the effects of other opioids, including prescription pills and street drugs. Buprenorphine attaches to receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and relieving withdrawal symptoms without providing the euphoric high associated with other opioids. Buprenorphine’s ceiling effect puts a limit on its strength, making it a safe option and decreasing the risk of overdose.
While buprenorphine is commonly taken orally, Sublocade provides buprenorphine through an injection administered by a medical professional once a month. Sublocade’s long-acting properties can benefit patients who otherwise have difficulty accessing or taking a daily medication.
Who Is Sublocade® Right For?
Sublocade tends to be a good option for people who are already stabilized on oral buprenorphine and are looking for a more convenient, longer-acting alternative. Because it removes the need for daily dosing, Sublocade can be particularly helpful for people who have difficulty maintaining a daily medication routine, want more discretion in their treatment, or are looking to reduce the number of clinic visits required for daily dosing.
Sublocade is not typically used as a starting point for treatment. Most patients begin with oral buprenorphine to ensure the medication is well tolerated before transitioning to the monthly injection. Your physician will help determine whether Sublocade is the right fit for your specific situation.
Where Can I Get Sublocade® Injections in Canada?
CATC currently only offers Sublocade® injections in select treatment centres. Please contact us for more information. At CATC, we offer a range of comprehensive treatment plans for people struggling with opioid addiction. If you or a loved one are ready to get help, learn more about Sublocade® and our other treatment options today. Reach out to us online via our form below or call our CARE team at 1-877-937-2282 to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sublocade the same as Suboxone?
No, though both contain buprenorphine. Suboxone is typically taken orally on a daily basis, while Sublocade is a once-monthly injection administered by a healthcare provider. Many patients start with oral buprenorphine before transitioning to Sublocade once they are stabilized.
Does Sublocade hurt?
Sublocade is administered as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is given just under the skin rather than into a muscle. Most patients describe the injection as similar to other routine injections. Your healthcare provider can answer specific questions about what to expect during your appointment.
How long does Sublocade stay in your system?
Each Sublocade injection gradually releases medication over approximately 28 days, which is why it’s administered on a monthly schedule. This long-acting design is part of what allows patients to avoid daily dosing.
Is Sublocade treatment covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by province and insurance plan. Our intake team can help you understand what coverage may be available for your specific situation before you make any decisions.
Where in Canada can I access Sublocade treatment?
Sublocade is currently available at select CATC treatment centres. Our intake team can let you know whether it’s available at a location near you and discuss alternative options if it isn’t.
This page is for informational purposes and is not medical advice. Please speak with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance about your situation.