How Long Can Sublocade Stay in Your System?

Sublocade can remain in your system for several months after the last injection—buprenorphine levels may be detectable in plasma for up to 5 to 8 months, depending on dose, duration of use, and individual metabolism.

Key Points

• A monthly subcutaneous injection of Sublocade is used to treat individuals with opioid use disorder.
• This extended-release form of buprenorphine is intended to be used alongside substance use counseling and/or mental health support.
• The active ingredient in Sublocade is the generic drug buprenorphine, a partial mu-receptor agonist.
• Side effects of Sublocade range from mild to severe and could require emergency medical attention.
• Individuals who stop taking Sublocade abruptly may experience severe opioid withdrawal symptoms.
• Sublocade can remain in a person’s system for up to 300 days and is detectable in urine, but most drug tests don’t screen for buprenorphine.
• Sublocade may not be suitable for everyone with a substance use disorder, and other treatment options are available for opioid addiction.

What Is Sublocade?

Sublocade is the brand name for the extended-release form of the drug buprenorphine. It’s given by injection and is FDA-approved to treat opioid addiction, also known as opioid use disorder (OUD). A Sublocade injection is considered a member of the class of drugs known as opiate partial agonists. [1] Sublocade should not be confused with Buprenex, another buprenorphine injection used to treat acute pain.

How Does Sublocade Work?

Sublocade is a partial mu-receptor agonist. [2] It can reduce opioid cravings by partially binding to opioid receptors in the brain. These are the same receptors that other opioids like heroin or oxycodone fully bind to. Sublocade has the same effects as opioids, but without the sense of euphoria. Sublocade helps reverse opioid dependence by reducing opioid cravings. It’s intended to be used alongside substance use counseling and rehabilitation as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

How Is Sublocade Administered?

Sublocade is a medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder. It’s a form of buprenorphine that is injected by a healthcare provider just under the skin. This subcutaneous injection is given in the upper arm, thigh, stomach, or buttocks. Sublocade is given as a monthly injection only.

For several weeks after receiving the Sublocade shot, you may experience a bump just under the skin. Be careful not to rub or massage the bump, and avoid wearing tight clothing over the injection site. If you experience injection site reactions, such as a rash, itching, or pain, notify your healthcare provider immediately.

Sublocade Side Effects

Sublocade side effects can be mild or severe. If you experience side effects that cause extreme discomfort or persist for more than a few days, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider immediately.

Common Sublocade Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Sublocade may include: [3]

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Tiredness
• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
• Pain or itching at the injection site
• Trouble urinating or painful urination
• Headache
• Constipation

If you experience mild side effects, please notify your doctor as soon as possible. They may adjust your dose or recommend an alternative medication.

Serious Side Effects of Sublocade

Some people who take Sublocade experience serious side effects that require medical attention. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects of Sublocade: [4]

• Trouble breathing
• Agitation
• Hallucinations
• Menstruation irregularities
• Decreased libido
• Trouble getting or maintaining an erection
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness
• Slurred speech
• Blurry vision
• Rapid or slow heart rate
• Jaundice
• Rash or hives
• Itching
• Fever
• Loss of coordination
• Twitching
• Muscle stiffness
• Confusion
• Diarrhea

Sublocade Withdrawal Symptoms

People experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using a substance they’ve become physically dependent on. If you stop Sublocade treatment due to side effects or for any other reason, you may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as: [5]

• Irritability or anxiety
• Stomach pain (cramps)
• Restlessness
• Watery eyes
• Chills or sweating
• Pupil dilation
• Weakness
• Insomnia
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid heart rate
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Backache

Don’t stop receiving your Sublocade shot without medical advice. Withdrawal symptoms may persist for up to one month after your last injection.

So, How Long Does Sublocade Stay in Your System?

A single dose of Sublocade, or buprenorphine extended-release injection, is intended to last one month. However, traces of the drug will remain in your system long after the medication stops working. Sublocade has a half-life of approximately 43 to 60 days, and buprenorphine may be detectable in plasma for up to 5 to 8 months, depending on individual factors..[6]

The amount of time Sublocade stays in your system could depend on several different factors, including how long you’ve been in the treatment program as well as your metabolism. Buprenorphine is not included in most standard opioid panels but can be detected with specific tests designed to identify it.[7] Although it’s technically an opiate, its structure is different from other opioids such as oxycodone or morphine.

Signs of Opioid Use Disorder

It’s important to know the signs of an opioid use disorder, so that you can receive the proper treatment. Medications like Sublocade can help someone safely stop using these dangerous drugs. Here are common signs of an opioid use disorder:

• Intense cravings for opioids
• Unsuccessful attempts to stop using opioids
• Continued use of opioids despite it causing problems at home, work, or school
• Continuing to use even though it’s worsening a physical or mental health condition
• Using opioids in dangerous situations
• Failing to meet responsibilities due to opioid use
• Spending a lot of time thinking about using opioids, using opioids, or recovering from their use
• Needing a higher dose of opioids to achieve the same effect (i.e., building tolerance)
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop using opioids for some time
• Taking opioids or another drug in an attempt to relieve withdrawal symptoms
• Taking a higher dose of prescription opioids than prescribed or taking them longer than prescribed

If you notice signs of OUD in yourself or a loved one, get help right away. Don’t wait for an official diagnosis.

Other Treatment Options for Substance Use Disorder

If you or a loved one is experiencing signs of a substance use disorder, including opioid dependence, there are many different treatment options available. A substance use and rehabilitation counselor can discuss these options with you. You should also talk to your doctor before beginning a course of Sublocade or any other medication-assisted treatment.

Sublocade isn’t the only medication that’s been approved to treat opioid use disorders. Other options may include Suboxone, methadone, and naltrexone, for instance. According to the CDC, detox from opioids is not recommended without the assistance of medication due to the high risk of relapse and fatal overdose. [8]

Medication-assisted opioid use disorder treatment may be more effective when combined with behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy or motivational interviewing, for example. Social support from family, friends, and support groups might also reduce the chance of relapse.

Opioid overdose has become an epidemic in the U.S. The risk of a fatal opioid overdose is not a risk you want to take. It’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible if you or a loved one is misusing opioids.

Is Sublocade Right for You?

Clinical studies indicate that Sublocade can be an effective form of addiction treatment for individuals who have developed a physical dependence on opioids.[9] It might not be suitable for everyone, though. Be sure to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss all available treatment options if you or a loved one is battling a substance use disorder.