Sublocade and Your Health: What to Monitor and When to Seek Help

We are committed to providing evidence-based treatments to support our patients on their journey to lasting recovery. One of the tools we offer is Sublocade, a long-acting injectable form of buprenorphine designed to help adults manage moderate to severe opioid use disorder.

The length of time a patient remains on Sublocade is highly individualized. There is no set maximum duration—some patients may benefit from several months of treatment, while others may continue for years. Our approach is patient-centered, and decisions about continuing or tapering Sublocade are made collaboratively between you and your MAPS for Recovery provider.

Our experienced team considers a variety of factors, including your stability in recovery, any co-occurring mental health concerns, your risk of relapse, and your personal goals for treatment. Some individuals find that longer-term maintenance with Sublocade helps them maintain progress and reduces the risk of relapse, while others may feel ready to consider tapering the medication after a period of stability.

Clinical guidelines suggest that remaining on medication-assisted treatment for several months or longer is linked to better outcomes and lower rates of relapse. If and when it’s time to discontinue Sublocade, our providers will guide you through a gradual, medically supervised taper to minimize withdrawal symptoms and help you maintain your recovery.

At MAPS for Recovery, we recognize that each person’s recovery journey is unique. Regular follow-up appointments with your provider allow us to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. We are here to support you in finding the duration of Sublocade therapy that best meets your needs and supports your long-term recovery.

At MAPS for Recovery, we offer Sublocade as part of our comprehensive treatment program for moderate to severe opioid use disorder. Sublocade is an injectable form of buprenorphine that is administered by our experienced healthcare professionals. The injection is given just under the skin, typically in the abdomen, and is designed to provide consistent medication levels to support your recovery journey.

For most patients at MAPS for Recovery, Sublocade is administered once a month, with each dose scheduled approximately 26 to 30 days apart. During the initial phase of your treatment, you may receive two monthly doses of 300 mg before transitioning to a maintenance dose of 100 mg monthly. The exact dosing schedule will be personalized by your MAPS for Recovery provider based on your individual response and recovery needs.

It is crucial to follow the dosing plan and schedule recommended by your MAPS for Recovery healthcare team. Changing the frequency or dosage on your own can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment and increase the risk of withdrawal symptoms or side effects. Our dedicated professionals will work closely with you to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.

If you have questions about Sublocade or any part of your treatment plan at MAPS for Recovery, please speak with your provider. We are here to support you every step of the way.

At MAPS for Recovery, we are dedicated to providing effective, evidence-based treatment options for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder. One of the innovative therapies we offer is Sublocade, a long-acting, injectable form of buprenorphine.

After your first Sublocade injection, you may begin to notice its effects within 24 hours. Sublocade is designed to steadily release buprenorphine into your system over the course of a month, helping to control cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Most patients experience the onset of therapeutic effects as the medication reaches effective levels in the bloodstream, typically within the first day after administration. However, the exact timing and degree of symptom relief can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as prior buprenorphine use, the severity of opioid dependence, and individual metabolism.

At MAPS for Recovery, your comfort and safety are our top priorities. We only administer Sublocade after you’ve been stabilized on a buprenorphine-containing medication, such as Suboxone, for at least seven days. This careful transition helps minimize withdrawal symptoms and ensures that the medication works effectively for you.

Our experienced providers will guide you through every step of the process and are available to address any questions or concerns you may have during the initial period after your injection. Some patients feel stabilized very quickly, while others may notice the full benefits over several days. Open communication with your MAPS for Recovery care team is essential, so please let us know how you are feeling and discuss any concerns promptly.

At MAPS for Recovery, we are committed to supporting our patients throughout their journey to overcoming opioid use disorder, including those receiving treatment with Sublocade. Sublocade is an effective, long-acting medication, but like all prescription treatments, it may cause side effects.

The most commonly reported side effects include reactions at the injection site, such as pain, itching, redness, swelling, or a small lump. Some patients may also experience constipation, headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or dizziness. In some cases, changes in liver function tests have been observed.

While these side effects are generally mild and manageable, serious reactions—such as severe allergic responses or complications at the injection site—can occur, though they are rare. At MAPS for Recovery, your safety is our top priority. If you are receiving Sublocade and notice any unusual or severe symptoms, please contact our medical team promptly. Our providers are always available to evaluate your concerns and ensure you receive the best possible care as you progress in your recovery. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Austin TX, Georgetown TX, Leander TX, Jonestown TX, Cedar Park TX, Round Rock TX, Rollingwood, TX, Bluff Springs TX, Del Valle TX, and surrounding areas.