Suboxone and Sublocade are both medications used to help treat opioid addiction. While these two medications have similar effects, one key difference sets them apart. Suboxone is a form of buprenorphine, an opioid partial agonist. It binds to the opioid receptors in the brain but does not cause the same euphoric feeling associated with opioids like heroin or oxycodone. On the other hand, Sublocade is extended-release buprenorphine.
A young woman is struggling with the tapering process of detoxing from Suboxone.
So how do Suboxone and Sublocade work? Both medications help reduce cravings for opioids and make withdrawal symptoms more manageable. For those already on Suboxone, switching to Sublocade may provide more significant relief from symptoms by providing continuous medication delivery over time. However, it is essential to note that both medications require careful monitoring by a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Generally speaking, people may need several weeks or even months of treatment before they can stop taking either medication without experiencing cravings or withdrawal symptoms.
When it comes to how long a person will have to be on either medication, this varies depending on individual circumstances. Generally speaking, people may need several weeks or even months of treatment before they can stop taking either medication without experiencing cravings or withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, some people may need maintenance therapy for an extended period to achieve long-term success with their recovery goals.
Now why can’t someone stop taking these medications cold turkey? Stopping either medication suddenly can lead to serious side effects such as increased cravings for opioids and more intense withdrawal symptoms than if they had gradually tapered off their dose over time. Additionally, stopping either medication too quickly may cause physical dependence on opioids or other substances and increase the risk of relapse back into addictive behaviors.
In conclusion, Suboxone and Sublocade are both critical tools in helping someone recover from opioid addiction; however, each person’s needs and circumstances must be considered when deciding which will work best for them. Additionally, neither should be stopped cold turkey as this could lead to serious side effects and put someone at risk of relapse into addictive behaviors. With proper monitoring from a healthcare provider or rehab and tapering off over time, these medications can help someone achieve long-term success in their recovery journey.
By Jace A.
The contents of this blog are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Considering individual circumstances, all health decisions should be made in consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. The blog’s authors do not accept any liability or responsibility for any reliance placed upon the blog’s content by any reader or visitor to the website. This blog does not constitute an endorsement, guarantee, or warranty from its authors.
