Opiate addiction is a problem that continues to plague many families, both in the United States and abroad. For some people, it has led to death or disability. Luckily, there are many treatments available that can help you or your loved ones get clean from this addiction. One such treatment is Sublocade which is an FDA-approved medication used for opioid dependence.
If you are on this page, it means that you are looking for more information on Sublocade versus Suboxone as treatment options for your loved one’s addiction. Both medications have their pros and cons. However, there are some compelling reasons why Sublocade should be considered before any other drug or combination of drugs.
What is Sublocade and What Does it Entail?
Sublocade is a medication that works by blocking the effects of opioids. That way, taking an opioid drug like Oxycodone or Heroin after taking Sublocade will not affect your body. Sublocade slowly releases buprenorphine into your system for between three to twelve days at once. However, it can only be effective if taken per the directives.
Who Should Consider This Treatment?
People who should consider using Sublocade are:
- Those with moderate-to-severe chronic pain that has lasted longer than six months and cannot be controlled by other treatments besides opioids.
- Patients suffering from opioid abuse/dependence.
- Individuals currently on a stable treatment regimen of sublingual buprenorphine. People using this medication mustn’t have any history of addiction to other substances, as Sublocade can lead to overdose if mixed with these drugs.
Reasons Why Sublocade Is Better Over Other Similar Treatments Such As Suboxone
There’s No Euphoric Effect after Using Sublocade
Sublocade works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain to prevent withdrawal symptoms when someone stops using opiates/opioids like heroin or prescription medications like fentanyl, hydrocodone, and Morphine. Once administered as directed, this drug provides long-term relief from cravings, thus reducing relapse rates.
Fewer Side Effects
This treatment has few side effects. The reason is that pharmacists formulate this drug by combining buprenorphine with naltrexone; both drugs have established safety profiles when combined into one monthly injection. This combination also provides less impact on liver enzymes, which means there are no restrictions regarding eating grapefruit while using this medication.
Naloxone, which is found in Sublocade, reduces the effects that opioids would typically have on someone if they were abusing them without prescription use through snorting or injecting. Additionally, this medication lasts longer in your system, usually three to twelve days. This means you only have to visit the clinic once a month for treatment instead of four or six times like Suboxone. As a result, this is more convenient for people with other engagements such as work.
One Cannot Overdose
Some patients worry about the safety of long-term use of Sublocade and what happens if they take more than prescribed. There’s usually a common misconception in the world of addiction that you can overdose on the drug. The truth is, it’s impossible to do so because this drug is designed with an ultra-low dose – just 1mg. Additionally, the suppressing nature of the injection and the once-a-month treatment plan ensures that users cannot overdose.
Common Side Effects of Sublocade and How to Manage Them
Constipation
This issue is A common complaint among Sublocade users. For this reason, it’s important to speak with your doctor about preventative measures or any steps you can take to address this issue. Some people find that a fiber supplement, such as Benefiber or Citrucel, can help with constipation relief. Moreover, drinking plenty of water and increasing daily physical activities is helpful.
Nausea
This side effect s common because the medication works by attaching itself to opioid receptors in the brain. This can trigger nausea symptoms until the body gets used to them being activated more regularly instead of just when opioids themselves are present.
Vomiting
Vomiting is also something that can occur due to Sublocade’s mechanism of action. Speak with your doctor about any preventative steps or remedies you can take ahead of time. This consultation is necessary the Sublocade treatment does not interfere too much with your normal daily life and activities. Some people find eating ginger helps alleviate both vomiting and nausea symptoms. Achieving the best out of Sublocade treatment requires combining the treatment with some psychotherapy methods such as CBT. As a result, you can call us today at 772-266-5320 for effective guidance on this treatment.
