Struggling with Opioid Dependence? A Once-a-Month Solution Could Change Your Life

If you or someone you love is battling opioid addiction, you know how difficult the recovery journey can be. Daily medication routines can feel overwhelming and hard to maintain—especially when life gets hectic. But what if you could receive consistent treatment with just one monthly injection?

Enter SUBLOCADE®—a long-acting buprenorphine injection that’s helping thousands of people regain control, reduce cravings, and focus on living a healthier life.

What Is SUBLOCADE®?

SUBLOCADE is an extended-release injectable form of buprenorphine, a medication approved for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD). It’s designed to be administered once a month by a healthcare provider, offering a steady release of medication to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and opioid cravings.

Unlike daily treatments like Suboxone® films or tablets, SUBLOCADE is injected under the skin and releases medication continuously over 28–30 days. This makes it a convenient and discreet option for those ready to commit to long-term recovery.

How Does SUBLOCADE Work?

SUBLOCADE uses ATRIGEL® technology to form a gel-like depot under the skin, which gradually releases buprenorphine into the bloodstream over time. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors just enough to prevent withdrawal and cravings—but not enough to cause a high.

Because it’s long-acting, SUBLOCADE helps:

  • Stabilize your brain chemistry

  • Prevent the cycle of highs and lows

  • Reduce the risk of relapse

  • Promote long-term recovery success

Who Is SUBLOCADE For?

SUBLOCADE is FDA-approved for adults with moderate to severe opioid use disorder who have already started and tolerated buprenorphine therapy for at least 7 days. It’s an ideal option if you:

  • Want to avoid daily dosing

  • Struggle with remembering or managing your medications

  • Are at risk of misuse or diversion

  • Need a more consistent and private treatment plan

Before starting SUBLOCADE, patients typically begin with a Suboxone® or generic buprenorphine regimen for a minimum of one week to stabilize their system.

Benefits of SUBLOCADE Treatment

✅ Once-a-Month Convenience
No more remembering pills or films every morning. One injection a month simplifies your routine and enhances compliance.

✅ Consistent Medication Levels
Because SUBLOCADE is long-acting, it provides stable blood levels of buprenorphine without the peaks and valleys of daily meds.

✅ Lower Risk of Diversion
Since it’s administered by a healthcare provider, there’s no risk of selling, losing, or misusing the medication.

✅ Improved Privacy
Discreet monthly visits eliminate the need for daily pharmacy trips or explaining medication to others.

✅ Better Focus on Recovery
When you’re not managing a daily habit, you can better concentrate on therapy, work, relationships, and rebuilding your life.

Potential Side Effects of SUBLOCADE

As with any medication, there are potential risks. Common side effects of SUBLOCADE include:

  • Injection site reactions (pain, itching, redness)

  • Headache

  • Constipation

  • Nausea

  • Increased liver enzymes

  • Fatigue

Serious risks (though rare) can include respiratory depression, especially if used with other sedatives or alcohol. Always discuss your full medical history with your provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Is SUBLOCADE the same as Suboxone?

Not exactly. Suboxone is a daily buprenorphine/naloxone combination, while SUBLOCADE is a monthly buprenorphine-only injection. They serve the same purpose but differ in form, frequency, and delivery.

❓ Is SUBLOCADE covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans, including ODB/ODSP do cover SUBLOCADE.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Starting SUBLOCADE involves three simple steps:

  1. Buprenorphine Induction: You’ll begin with oral buprenorphine for 7+ days.

  2. First Injection: Once stabilized, you’ll receive your first SUBLOCADE injection in the abdomen by a healthcare professional.

  3. Monthly Follow-ups: You’ll return each month for your next dose, paired with counseling or behavioral therapy.

Take the first step toward lasting recovery.
✔️ Ask your doctor about SUBLOCADE.
✔️ Or search “SUBLOCADE treatment near me” to find a certified provider.
✔️ Don’t wait—a healthier, more stable future starts today.

📍 Need help right now? Contact us at 226-383-8000 or visit 500 Garafraxa Street East, Fergus,ON.