Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is often used to treat opioid addiction. This comprehensive approach involves taking medication while attending behavioral therapy, counseling, and peer support group sessions. Although MAT medications do not cure addiction, they do help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings, reducing the risk of relapse.
When it comes to treating opioid dependence, Sublocade and Suboxone are two commonly prescribed medications. Both are effective in helping individuals on their journey to recovery, but they have their own unique characteristics and potential side effects. Learning about the uses, side effects, and differences between Sublocade and Suboxone can help you determine which one is right for you.
Please note that you should never take either medication without being directed to do so by your physician. To learn more about MAT or our California rehab options, please reach out to Arise Treatment Center today.
What is Sublocade?
Sublocade is a brand-name medication used in the treatment of opioid dependence. Its primary active ingredient is buprenorphine, which is classified as a partial opioid agonist. This means that buprenorphine can interact with the same receptors in the brain that opioids do but with less intensity.
Sublocade is administered as a monthly injection under the skin, making it a convenient option for individuals who struggle with daily medication adherence. Sublocade is a subcutaneous injection. After being injected, usually in the abdomen, the injection turns into a gel-like substance called a “depot” (dee-poh). The depot releases a steady dose of buprenorphine all month long, providing consistent levels of buprenorphine in the body.
Before starting Sublocade, individuals must take an oral form of buprenorphine for at least seven days. This induction period is essential for withdrawal and safe use of the medication.
Side Effects of Sublocade
Like all medications, Sublocade can cause side effects. Some individuals may experience redness, pain, or swelling at the injection site. These reactions typically resolve on their own but should be reported to a healthcare provider.
Other common side effects of Sublocade may include:
- Constipation
- Headache
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes
- Allergic reactions
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is another medication used to treat opioid dependence. It contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine, as mentioned earlier, is a partial opioid agonist, while naloxone is an opioid antagonist. Naloxone is included in Suboxone to deter misuse and reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms if the medication is injected or used improperly.
Suboxone is available in various forms, including sublingual films and tablets, which are typically taken daily. It is also used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes counseling and support.
Individuals may start taking Suboxone 12-24 hours after their last dose of opioids. Suboxone can help reduce the need for inpatient detoxification services and 24-hour medical monitoring during withdrawal.
Side Effects of Suboxone
Like Sublocade, Suboxone can have side effects. Common side effects of Suboxone may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Constipation
- Sweating
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes
- Allergic reactions
Similarities Between Suboxone and Sublocade
While Suboxone and Sublocade are different medications, they share several similarities. For example, both medications contain buprenorphine, are approved for the treatment of opioid dependence, and can help individuals reduce cravings. They also share common side effects, including nausea, constipation, headaches, sweating, sleep disturbances, and mood changes.
Differences Between Suboxone and Sublocade
Despite their similarities, there are several key differences between Suboxone and Sublocade, such as:
- Frequency of administration – Sublocade is administered as a monthly injection, while Suboxone is typically taken daily as a sublingual film or tablet. The Sublocade shot may be more convenient for some individuals who struggle with daily medication adherence.
- Active ingredients – Suboxone contains naloxone, which is an opioid antagonist. Naloxone is included to deter misuse and to reduce the risk of precipitating withdrawal symptoms if the medication is injected. Sublocade does not contain naloxone.
- Misuse potential – Sublocade is only administered in a doctor’s office, so it has virtually no potential for abuse. Suboxone, although it contains naloxone which deters misuse, has a slightly higher potential for abuse.
- Cost – Sublocade may be more expensive than Suboxone, primarily due to the cost of the injection procedure and the less frequent dosing.
- Treatment initiation – Starting treatment with Suboxone is relatively straightforward and can be initiated by a healthcare provider in an outpatient setting. Sublocade, on the other hand, requires the patient to have already been stabilized on buprenorphine before transitioning to the monthly injection.
Learn More About Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) in California
Coupled with a comprehensive addiction treatment program, buprenorphine medications can help reduce the risk of relapse and improve retention in treatment. While medications keep individuals comfortable, therapies like group therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) help clients pave the way for a sober life.
If you or a loved one are struggling with opioid addiction and are interested in exploring your various treatment options, please contact our team at Arise Treatment Center today. Through a combination of evidence-based and holistic treatment programs, we can help you break the cycle of addiction once and for all and guide you on your journey toward a happy and healthier life in recovery.
References:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Buprenorphine, Retrieved September 2023 from https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders/medications-counseling-related-conditions/buprenorphine
- National Library of Medicine: Clinical Review Report: Buprenorphine extended-release injection (Sublocade), Retrieved September 2023 from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546461/
- National Library of Medicine: Suboxone: Rationale, Science, Misconceptions, Retrieved September 2023 from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5855417/