Sublocade, a medication sometimes used in addiction treatment, can play a role in supporting recovery. At Lakeview Health we do not use medications, like Sublocade, that can put our patients in a likely dangerous situation. However, it is essential for patients and healthcare providers to be aware of the potential risks associated with its use. Recognizing the dangers will help ensure a safe and effective addiction treatment journey.
What is Sublocade
Sublocade is a prescription medication designed specifically for adults dealing with moderate to severe opioid use disorder. This medication is administered following an initial treatment phase with a buprenorphine formulation, which users must place under their tongue or between their cheek and gum until it dissolves. After stabilizing withdrawal symptoms with this method for at least a week, healthcare professionals may transition the patient to Sublocade.
Approved by the FDA, Sublocade builds upon established treatment protocols to enhance recovery outcomes. The active ingredient in Sublocade, buprenorphine, belongs to a category of drugs known as partial opioid agonists. This class of medication works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain, mitigating withdrawal symptoms without producing the intense euphoria associated with full opioid agonists.
At Lakeview Health we do not provide sublocade as a treatment. However it’s sister facility, Stepping Stone Center for Recovery, may provide sublocade treatment for very special cases. It is best to contact our team of experts to discuss the best treatment avenues if you or a loved one suffers from opioid addiction.
Administration and Supportive Treatment
Sublocade is administered through a monthly injection beneath the skin of the abdomen, exclusively by a healthcare provider in a clinical setting. This mode of delivery assists in maintaining a consistent therapeutic level of the medication and reduces the risk of misuse. Patients should also receive counseling and support services to address emotional and situational factors contributing to opioid misuse.
What is Sublocade used to treat?
Sublocade is used in adults struggling with moderate to severe opioid use disorder (OUD). OUD is a medical condition characterized by the problematic use of opioid substances, leading to significant impairment or distress. Opioids are prescription pain relievers, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and fentanyl, as well as illicit drugs like heroin. OUD affects individuals physically, mentally, and socially, disrupting various aspects of their lives.
How it’s used in an addiction treatment plan
This medication is designed to be integrated into a comprehensive treatment regimen that not only involves the medication itself but also includes counseling and psychosocial support. Collaboration with these supportive services should be done to address behavioral aspects and personal challenges contributing to opioid misuse.
Clinical Research on Sublocade
The efficacy and safety of Sublocade have been observed. For example, a study involving 848 adults with moderate to severe opioid use disorder was conducted. These participants, initially stabilized with buprenorphine/naloxone, shifted to Sublocade. They demonstrated higher rates of prolonged periods without opioid use and a greater percentage of participants achieving sustained opioid-free weeks compared to those on a placebo, underscoring the potential of Sublocade to maintain recovery stability.
Side effects of Sublocade
Opioid use disorder is a serious public health challenge, impacting countless individuals across the globe. Sublocade, an injectable form of buprenorphine, can be a beneficial component in the process of treating this issue. However, it doesn’t come without side effects.
Mild Side Effects
Sublocade is known to cause a variety of common side effects. Some of the more mild side effects include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Itching or pain at the site of the injection
Additionally, some may notice an increase in liver enzymes, which should be monitored by their healthcare provider. While these side effects are generally manageable, patients should maintain regular communication with their healthcare professionals to ensure their symptoms are properly addressed.
More serious symptoms like allergic reactions, like rashes, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing, also require urgent care. Opioid withdrawal symptoms, including muscular pain, nausea, vomiting, sweating, or chills, should be monitored closely. Sublocade can also cause lowered blood pressure, resulting in dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing.
Severe Side Effects
Sublocade can potentially lead to more serious complications. One of the most severe risks is respiratory depression, especially if the medication is combined with other central nervous system depressants such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol.
Liver issues are another serious concern; signs such as jaundice, dark urine, or light-colored stools indicate liver damage and require immediate medical attention.
Life-Threatening Breathing Problems
Sublocade carries a significant risk of causing serious and life-threatening respiratory depression. This condition occurs when the medication suppresses the function of the central nervous system, leading to dangerously slow or shallow breathing. It is crucial to seek emergency medical assistance immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Feeling faint, dizzy, or confused
- Drowsiness or lack of coordination; blurred vision
- Slurred speech
- Decreased breathing rate
- Difficulty with clear thinking
These symptoms could indicate that breathing has become compromised, requiring immediate intervention to prevent further complications or even death.
Professional guidance is essential when managing these severe reactions to ensure patient safety.
Should you consult a medical professional first before requesting Sublocade? Why?
Consulting a medical professional before requesting Sublocade is absolutely essential. A healthcare provider can ensure that Sublocade is an appropriate and safe option for the individual and provide guidance on managing any side effects. Here’s why it’s so important:
Professional Assessment of Medical Conditions
Consulting with a medical professional before requesting Sublocade is crucial as it allows for a comprehensive assessment of your current medical conditions. Conditions such as breathing problems, liver or kidney issues, and mental health concerns must be thoroughly evaluated to ensure that Sublocade is appropriate and safe for your use. A healthcare provider can determine if the benefits of Sublocade outweigh potential risks based on your specific health profile.
Prevention of Adverse Reactions
Healthcare providers play a vital role in preventing adverse reactions by reviewing your complete medication and supplement list. This step ensures that there are no contraindications or potential interactions with Sublocade, reducing the risk of harmful side effects. Given the serious nature of these reactions, professional guidance is essential to manage risks effectively.
Administration by Certified Professionals
Sublocade is not available over the counter, emphasizing the need for administration by certified healthcare providers. These professionals are trained to deliver the medication safely in a controlled environment and monitor for any immediate adverse effects. This controlled setup mitigates the risk of complications that could arise from improper administration.
Concerns for Pregnant or Breastfeeding Individuals
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discussing Sublocade with a medical professional is particularly important. The medication can cause withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if administered during pregnancy, and it can be transmitted through breast milk. A healthcare provider will help you weigh the risks and explore alternative treatments or feeding options, prioritizing both your health and the well-being of your child.
Can you become addicted or dependent on Sublocade?
Sublocade contains buprenorphine, which is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance. This classification implies it has a potential for abuse, similar to other opioid medications. Although Sublocade is designed to help in treating opioid addiction, it can pose a risk for dependency or addiction if misused. Healthcare professionals should diligently observe patients for any indications of misuse or addictive behavior.
Physical Dependence on Sublocade
Buprenorphine can lead to physical dependence. If the treatment is suddenly stopped, the individual may experience withdrawal symptoms. However, due to Sublocade’s extended-release formulation, any withdrawal effects experienced might be less intense and appear later than those caused by short-acting opioids.
Overdose Risks Associated with Abuse
The improper use of buprenorphine, the active component in Sublocade, can lead to significant health risks, especially when combined with substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines. This mix intensifies the risk of a severe overdose, which manifests through symptoms such as extremely small pupils, significant drowsiness, decreased blood pressure, and potentially life-threatening respiratory issues. Careful monitoring and professional guidance are essential to prevent these dangerous interactions.
Response to Overdose
In the unfortunate event of an overdose, immediate medical intervention is critical. The primary focus should be on restoring the patient’s breathing and circulatory functions, which medical professionals achieve through administering oxygen, intravenous fluids, and assisted ventilation techniques. Additionally, naloxone is a medication that may be utilized to counteract the effects of buprenorphine; however, it might require larger or successive doses compared to other opioid overdoses.
How to treat a Sublocade addiction
Addressing addiction to Sublocade involves a comprehensive approach that targets both physical dependence and psychological aspects. With appropriate intervention strategies, individuals can successfully navigate recovery and achieve long-term sobriety. Below are some common treatment methods recommended for managing Sublocade addiction:
Medical Detoxification
Medical detoxification for Sublocade addiction involves a structured and supervised process designed to safely remove Sublocade from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms and minimizing discomfort. This process typically begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation to assess the individual’s health and determine the most appropriate detox plan. Healthcare professionals may implement a gradual tapering schedule, reducing the dosage of Sublocade incrementally to lessen withdrawal effects.
Inpatient Rehabilitation
Inpatient rehab programs provide a structured environment where individuals can receive continuous medical and psychological care. During their stay at a residential facility, patients are offered comprehensive treatment plans that address both the physical and emotional aspects of addiction in a holistic manner.
Outpatient Rehabilitation
For those who require flexibility, outpatient rehabilitation offers structured therapy and support while allowing patients to continue their day-to-day activities. This option typically involves regular counseling sessions and group therapy, fostering recovery while maintaining routine commitments.
Behavioral Therapy
Incorporating behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helps individuals address underlying psychological issues and develop healthier coping mechanisms. These therapeutic approaches aim to modify harmful behaviors and thought patterns that contribute to addiction.
Support Groups
Participation in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provides essential peer and community support. Engagement in a recovery network can foster a sense of connectivity and accountability, which is fundamental for sustained recovery efforts.
Counseling
Through individual or group counseling, individuals can explore emotional triggers and develop coping strategies. Counseling helps in implementing lifestyle changes necessary for managing addiction and preventing relapse.
Aftercare Programs
Long-term success in overcoming Sublocade addiction is bolstered by comprehensive aftercare programs. These programs offer ongoing therapy, follow-up counseling, and continued involvement in support networks to reduce the risk of relapse.
Combining medical treatment with behavioral therapy can lead to highly effective outcomes in dealing with Sublocade addiction, promoting healthier lives and sustainable recovery.
Overcoming addiction and achieving long-term recovery is a difficult process, but it’s possible. At Lakeview Health, we are committed to providing comprehensive and individualized care. While we don’t use Sublocade as part of our detox program at Lakeview, we can help patients who have become addicted to it.
Our team of dedicated professionals works collaboratively to ensure that each step of the recovery journey is supported with expertise and empathy. Reach out today for more information and to get started with treatment.
