Suboxone vs. Sublocade

Suboxone and Sublocade are both FDA approved medications used in medication assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. Both medications contain buprenorphine, which helps to reduce withdrawal and cravings. However, Suboxone vs Sublocade differ in how they’re taken and in their flexibility of use.

In this guide, we’ll break down the essential facts about these medications, so you can make an informed, practical decision with your provider about which treatment option is best for you. 

Key Facts

• Suboxone is a daily buprenorphine/naloxone medication taken at home; Sublocade is a monthly buprenorphine injection.
• Both reduce cravings, withdrawal and relapse risk, but differ in convenience, dosing control, and misuse potential.
• Suboxone offers easy dose adjustments; Sublocade helps people who struggle with daily adherence.
• Choice depends on treatment stage, lifestyle, stability, insurance and provider access.

Suboxone vs. Sublocade Basics

Suboxone and Sublocade are both FDA approved buprenorphine treatments used in medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder.

Their shared goal is simple: reduce cravings and withdrawal, stabilize brain chemistry and lower the risk of overdose and relapse during recovery. 

Suboxone combines buprenorphine and naloxone and is taken daily as a film or tablet that dissolves under the tongue. It’s flexible, accessible and widely prescribed in outpatient settings.

Sublocade contains only buprenorphine and is administered once a month as a long acting injection. After the injection, the medication forms a depot under the skin that is steadily released over 30 days. 

Key Differences: What Treatment Looks Like in Everyday Life

Understanding the key differences between Suboxone and Sublocade can help you have a more informed conversation with your healthcare provider about which option is right for you.

Dosing, Convenience and Staying on Track

Suboxone is taken at home at the same time each day. That can be a positive for people who want flexibility or expect to have changes in their dosage.

It’s a good option for people who want to avoid frequent clinic visits or who prefer not to take an injection.

Anyone choosing to use Suboxone must remember that it does require consistency: remembering doses, refilling prescriptions and managing medication storage.

Sublocade is a once monthly injection. This route can be especially helpful for people with busy schedules, frequent travel or a history of inconsistent medication use.

Individuals who choose Sublocade need to remember that there is little flexibility in its use and dose adjustments take planning and guidance.

You must also be comfortable with injections and commit to monthly in office visits when taking Sublocade.

Keeping these similarities and differences in mind will help you to make the right decisions based on your unique needs and circumstances. 

Side Effects, Safety and Misuse Risk

Both medications contain buprenorphine and share many of the same side effects: constipation, nausea, headache, sweating and sleep changes. However, many are manageable and lessen as the body adjusts.

Sublocade carries an additional consideration: injection site reactions such as swelling, redness or discomfort. These are usually mild but can be a factor to consider for people with a sensitivity to injections.

Suboxone contains buprenorphine along with naloxone to discourage injection misuse. Although not as common, suboxone tablets or film can still be misused.

Sublocade, however, has extremely low misuse potential because the medication is deposited in the tissues and once given, remains in place until it is completely absorbed by the body. 

Another difference between the two is the stability of the medication in the blood. Sublocade releases a consistent amount of buprenorphine all month long, which may help people with breakthrough cravings or patterns of relapse.

Because Suboxone is taken daily and by mouth, there is a potential for unstable blood serum levels related to an inconsistent pattern of use. 

Choosing Between Suboxone and Sublocade

It’s important to talk with your healthcare provider about your specific needs to determine which type of medication will best support your recovery. 

Who May Be Better Suited for Suboxone vs Sublocade

Suboxone is often the first medication used in MAT. It allows careful dose adjustments during induction and stabilization, providing the flexibility that many people look for. 

Sublocade is typically best for individuals who have already reached a stable daily Suboxone dose but want fewer clinic visits or no longer want to think about daily medication.

It’s also appropriate for people with a history of lost prescriptions or difficulty sticking to a routine.

Some other factors to consider when choosing the right medication are: pregnancy, co-occurring mental or physical health conditions, insurance coverage and whether local providers are certified and equipped to administer injections.

FAQs: Suboxone vs. Sublocade

Is Sublocade Stronger or More Effective?

Sublocade and Suboxone are effective buprenorphine treatments. Sublocade offers very steady blood levels and eliminates the risk of missed doses. Suboxone provides more fine tuned dose control.

Can You Switch Between Them?

Yes. Most people must stabilize on a consistent Suboxone dose before starting Sublocade. Switching back is also possible if injections aren’t tolerated or if treatment goals change.

Do You Still Need Counseling or Rehab?

Yes. Medication assisted treatment works best when paired with therapy, behavioral support and recovery planning. Buprenorphine helps to support stability so you can fully focus on the work of recovery.

Finding Treatment in Your Area

Use the Rehab.com treatment directory to explore programs near you that offer Suboxone, Sublocade or other forms of medication-assisted treatment.

Filter by location, insurance, level of care and specialty services to find the right treatment option for you.

Not sure where to start? Call 800-985-8516 ( Sponsored Helpline ) today to talk to someone about treatment options and learn about your insurance benefits.