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Opioid dependency is a devastating disease that causes dependency on the substance even though it’s causing physical and mental harm. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, a physician may prescribe several medications to help with recovery. 

Two of the common drugs are Suboxone (buprenorphine and naloxone) and Sublocade (buprenorphine). 

These medications can help anyone struggling with an opioid dependency transition into a healthier and happier lifestyle. Continue reading below to discover the similarities and differences between Sublocade and Suboxone. 

Is Sublocade the Same as Suboxone?

Sublocade and Suboxone both contain buprenorphine, a drug that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in those struggling with substance abuse disorders. That said, there are a few subtle differences between the two medications, such as:

• Patients take Sublocade once a month, where Suboxone is a daily dosage.
• Sublocade is relatively new (approved in 2017) where Suboxone has been available since 2002.
• Sublocade is taken via injection whereas Suboxone is taken orally on the tongue.

Suboxone is typically the first form of medication a health care professional will prescribe to someone to treat opioid addiction. Sublocade will often be recommended after a patient has already received Suboxone, oral buprenorphine, or naloxone treatment. 

What are the Side Effects?

Like most drugs, both come with mild and severe adverse effects. Mild adverse reactions are more common, but some people may experience severe adverse effects and health risks.

Some mild side effects are:

• Stomach pain
• Blurry vision
• Headaches
• Decreased energy
• Insomnia
• Irregular heartbeat

Above are just some of the most common mild adverse effects of buprenorphine. To learn more about the potential adverse effects, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider.

Some severe adverse effects are:

• Liver problems
• Allergic reactions

Main Differences Between Sublocade and Suboxone

Drug Composition

Above, you can see that there are a lot of differences and similarities between the two medications. The most apparent difference is the composition. 

Suboxone contains both buprenorphine and naloxone, whereas Sublocade only contains buprenorphine. Naloxone blocks the effects of opioids, which ultimately helps people get over their addiction with fewer side effects.  

Prescription Duration

Suboxone is a medication that requires a daily dose. 

For patients that have already received treatment with buprenorphine, they can opt for Sublocade since it lessens the amount of medication they have to take. As a result, it tends to be more favorable for patients further along the recovery process.

Method of Use

Since Sublocade is taken via an injection, it has to be administered by a certified health professional. Suboxone is taken orally on the tongue, so patients can take the medication home and administer it themselves. 

Ultimately, people may prefer Suboxone since it doesn’t require a doctor’s visit. However, they’ll need to take the medication daily. 

Which One Is Right For You?

To choose the best medication to help with your addiction, it’s vital that you weigh all the benefits and risks beforehand. Taking the wrong medication or using the drugs incorrectly could result in some severe health risks. 

One of the best ways to determine which of the two medications is right for your treatment plan is to consult with an opiate addiction treatment specialist. They can conduct a thorough analysis of your opiate addiction and inform you of the most effective treatment route. 

Buprenorphine is typically used as a long-term treatment to help control cravings. Suboxone is usually the first drug to help combat cravings. 

Both drugs may not be a viable option if you have a pre-existing medical condition. As a result, you should always consult your doctor before taking any form of treatment for opioid addiction. 

FAQs

What are the chances of withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking Sublocade or Suboxone?

If you stop taking your buprenorphine or naloxone prescription, there are chances you’ll experience withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine can create a physical dependency, so your body will need the medication to function properly until it gets used to not having it in your system. While this can be quite unsettling, it’s common for most opioid addiction drugs. 

A buprenorphine injection stays in your system longer, so you may not experience any symptoms until months after your last dose. Suboxone and naloxone can create symptoms just a few days after your last dose. 

To avoid any negative reactions, it’s best to keep taking your medication unless your doctor recommends otherwise. Doctors will typically gradually lower your dosage to help you get off the medication safely and avoid physical dependency. 

Does Sublocade make you feel high?

Since it’s an opioid antagonist drug, it essentially blocks the effects of any opiate. When you take it, it’s much harder to feel the effects of opioids, heroin, and fentanyl. Since the drug is administered by a healthcare professional, it’s almost impossible to abuse it. 

How Long Does Suboxone Take To Start Working? 

Suboxone is significantly milder than heroin, so you won’t feel any euphoric effects immediately after taking it. Once the film dissolves on your tongue, you should feel the effects in about 30 to 40 minutes. The correct dosage should last anywhere between 48 and 72 hours. 

You should never take more than the recommended dosage to avoid any health risks.

Learn More About Opiate Addiction Treatment Today!

Drug addiction is a nationwide problem that requires immediate and effective solutions. Thanks to modern medicine, there are numerous drugs available to help those struggling with opioid abuse disorders. Furthermore, there are rehab centers that have the staff and resources to monitor and treat various addictions safely and decrease the chances of an opioid overdose. If you or a loved one is in need of opiate addiction treatment, don’t hesitate to seek our professional help. Here at Master Center, we’ve helped countless patients recover from addiction and go on to live healthier and happier life. Reach out to our team of experts today to learn more about our different treatment options.