For individuals in recovery from opioid dependence, medication assisted treatment (MAT) is often a crucial part of the healing process. One option that has gained widespread use is Sublocade, a long acting form of buprenorphine given as a monthly injection. If you’re considering this treatment, you may be wondering:How Long Does Sublocade Stay In Your System?
What Is Sublocade?
Sublocade is an extended release injection of buprenorphine, a medication that helps reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Unlike daily oral buprenorphine, Sublocade is administered once a month by a healthcare professional, making it a convenient and effective option for many patients in recovery.
How Long Does Sublocade Stay in Your System?
The length of time Sublocade stays in your system depends on several factors, but in general:
Half-life: Sublocade has an average half-life of 43 to 60 days. This means it takes that long for half of the drug to leave your body.
Duration in system: Because of its long half-life, Sublocade can remain in your system for 5 to 10 months after your last injection.
Detection: In drug screenings, buprenorphine from Sublocade may show up for several months after the final dose.
This extended-release design is intentional it provides a steady level of medication, helping patients maintain stability without the ups and downs of daily dosing.
Factors That Affect How Long Sublocade Lasts
Not everyone metabolizes medications the same way. How long Sublocade stays in your body can depend on:
Metabolism rate: Faster metabolism may process the drug more quickly.
Liver function: Since Sublocade is metabolized in the liver, impaired liver health can slow elimination.
Dosage and duration of use: Higher or repeated doses may stay in the body longer.
Overall health: Weight, age, and other health conditions can affect processing time.
Why This Matters in Recovery
Knowing how long Sublocade stays in your system is important for several reasons:
Treatment planning: Doctors need this information to safely manage your ongoing care.
Drug testing: Buprenorphine may appear on certain tests for months after stopping treatment.
Transitioning medications: If switching from Sublocade to another form of treatment, timing is critical to avoid withdrawal or interactions.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does Sublocade stay in your system? On average, it can remain in the body for 5 to 10 months after the last injection. While this may seem like a long time, it’s designed to provide consistent support for individuals in recovery.
