Millions of people in the United States struggle with opioid abuse and addiction. Tens of thousands of people lose their lives to opioid-related overdoses and other complications. Once someone has developed a physical dependence on opioids, it can be nearly impossible to quit using them without significant treatment and support.
Sublocade is an FDA-approved drug that can help to treat opioid use disorder. Healthcare providers administer a monthly injection of Sublocade as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program.
This article will explore Sublocade treatment. You will learn:
- How opioid use disorder develops
- The effects and risks of Sublocade treatment
- How Sublocade can assist in treating opioid addiction
- Where to find Sublocade therapy in Florida
If you or someone you love struggles with opioid abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Comprehensive, effective treatment is available at Palm City Wellness. Contact our intake team now to learn about our Sublocade treatment programs or other kinds of recovery support.
Opioid Use Disorder: An Overview
Opioids are highly addictive drugs. There are both illicit and prescription opioid drugs. FDA-approved medications like oxycodone, morphine, and hydrocodone are opioids. Heroin is an illegal opioid drug.
Opioids bind to receptors in parts of the brain related to pleasure, emotional regulation, and pain relief. People may experience euphoria when taking both prescription and illicit opioids. People may like the side effects of opioids and misuse them.
Opioid misuse includes:
- Taking a drug more often than prescribed
- Taking a larger dose than prescribed
- Taking a drug for a longer period than prescribed
- Using a drug differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting tablets
- Taking a drug recreationally (without a prescription)
People who misuse opioids may develop a physical dependence on them. Dependence can develop after just a short period of misuse. Some people become addicted to prescription drugs and then start using illicit opioids like heroin. This is more common if they can no longer legally obtain their prescription drugs.
Opioid addiction is a severe condition that puts people at risk of overdose and long-term health complications. People with opioid dependence must seek opioid addiction treatment.
What is Sublocade?
Sublocade is a name-brand, FDA-approved prescription medication. The active ingredient in Sublocade is a drug called buprenorphine.
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist. This means that it works in the body similarly to opioids. Like opioids, it binds to opioid receptors in the brain. However, unlike prescription medications or illicit opioids, it does not cause euphoria or other pleasurable side effects.
Participating in Sublocade treatment can help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Before receiving Sublocade, people must take oral buprenorphine for seven days. Once Sublocade treatment begins, people receive a monthly injection of Sublocade.
A medical professional injects the drug under the skin during an in-office appointment. Once it is in place, Sublocade turns into a gel-like solid substance. Small amounts of the medication enter the bloodstream throughout the month.
Receiving the Sublocade shot ensures that people have a steady amount of the drug in their system. They do not have to remember to take daily medication. Receiving an extended-release injection can simplify opioid abuse treatment and reduce non-compliance.
The Effects and Risks of Sublocade
Sublocade can significantly reduce cravings for opioids and other withdrawal symptoms. This can prevent people from having uncomfortable withdrawal periods and reduces the risk of relapse.
Some of the possible side effects of Sublocade include:
- Itching or pain at the injection site
- Constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tiredness
- Headache
Rarely, people may experience severe side effects after receiving Sublocade, including:
- Low blood pressure during position changes
- Liver problems, including hepatitis
- Allergic reaction
You must talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of participating in Sublocade treatment.
Using Sublocade During Addiction Treatment
You may participate in Sublocade treatment as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has determined that MAT programs are effective at helping people recover from opioid use disorder.
In addition to using Sublocade and other prescription drugs, you will follow a tailored treatment plan that may include:
- Medical care
- Mental health treatment
- Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Individual counseling
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
- Relapse prevention therapy
- Meditation, art therapy, nutrition counseling, exercise, and other holistic therapies
Treatment programs are available in many settings and several levels of care. Many people begin treatment in an inpatient program before transitioning into outpatient rehab.
After completing treatment, people must continue to participate in an aftercare program. An aftercare plan may include medical care, mental health treatment, continuing treatment, support groups, and more.
Find Sublocade Treatment in Palm City, Florida
If you or someone you love struggles with opioid abuse or addiction, the comprehensive treatment you need is available at Palm City Wellness.
Contact our intake team now with questions, help with insurance verification, or schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Information about Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Medications for Substance Use Disorders
- FDA: FDA approves first once-monthly buprenorphine injection, a medication-assisted treatment option for opioid use disorder
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Clinical Review Report: Buprenorphine extended-release injection