From the Guidelines
Sublocade is a prescription medication containing buprenorphine, used to treat moderate to severe opioid use disorder in adults who have started treatment with a transmucosal buprenorphine-containing product. It comes as a monthly subcutaneous injection that slowly releases medication over time, maintaining steady blood levels to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. The standard dosing regimen typically begins with 300 mg monthly for the first two months, followed by maintenance doses of 100 mg monthly, though some patients may require continued 300 mg dosing. Sublocade works by partially activating opioid receptors in the brain (as a partial agonist), which helps manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings while blocking the effects of other opioids. This medication must be administered by a healthcare provider and cannot be dispensed directly to patients. Side effects may include injection site reactions, constipation, headache, nausea, and sedation. Patients should be aware that Sublocade forms a solid deposit (depot) under the skin that gradually releases medication and should not attempt to remove it.
According to the most recent evidence, specifically the study published in 2019 1, buprenorphine is a safe and effective treatment option for opioid use disorder, and Sublocade is a formulation of buprenorphine that provides a convenient and effective way to manage opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms. The study also highlights the importance of proper dosing and administration of buprenorphine, as well as the need for close monitoring and follow-up care.
Some key points to consider when prescribing Sublocade include:
- The medication should only be administered by a healthcare provider who has completed the necessary training and has obtained a waiver from the Drug Enforcement Administration.
- Patients should be started on a transmucosal buprenorphine-containing product before being switched to Sublocade.
- The standard dosing regimen should be followed, with adjustments made as needed to manage side effects and ensure efficacy.
- Patients should be closely monitored for signs of opioid withdrawal, as well as for potential side effects such as injection site reactions and sedation.
- Sublocade should not be used in patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless the benefits outweigh the risks, as determined by a healthcare provider 1.
Overall, Sublocade is a valuable treatment option for adults with moderate to severe opioid use disorder, and its use should be considered in conjunction with other evidence-based treatments, such as counseling and behavioral therapy.
From the Research
Definition of Sublocade
- Sublocade is a medication that contains the active ingredient buprenorphine [@3@ is not available, hence no information on Sublocade (buprenorphine) can be provided from the given studies]
Mechanism of Action
- Unfortunately, there are no research papers provided to assist in answering this question about the mechanism of action of Sublocade (buprenorphine)
Uses
- The provided studies do not contain information about Sublocade (buprenorphine) and its uses
Side Effects
- No information is available from the given studies about the side effects of Sublocade (buprenorphine)
Interactions
- There are no research papers to assist in answering this question about the interactions of Sublocade (buprenorphine) with other medications