SUBLOCADE

Sublocade Treatment Frankfort KYGuided Addiction Recovery

A once-monthly treatment option for opioid addiction, available in Frankfort and throughout central Kentucky.
Medicaid accepted. Same-day appointments available when possible.

Sublocade Treatment in Frankfort, Kentucky

If you’re looking for a longer-acting option for opioid addiction treatment, Sublocade may be right for you. At CommonHealth Recovery in Frankfort, we provide monthly Sublocade injections as part of a structured, medically supervised outpatient program.

Sublocade offers steady medication support without the need for daily dosing. Our team combines this treatment with counseling, case management, and ongoing medical care to support lasting recovery.

Comprehensive Medication-Assisted Treatment

Recovery requires more than medication alone. At CommonHealth Recovery, Sublocade treatment is integrated with counseling, behavioral support, and regular medical follow-up. Our Frankfort location serves individuals across central Kentucky who are ready for a stable, long-term path forward.

What is Sublocade?

Understanding This FDA-Approved Treatment

Sublocade is an FDA-approved medication for treating moderate to severe opioid use disorder. Specifically, it’s an extended-release buprenorphine injection. Unlike daily medications such as Suboxone strips or tablets, Sublocade works differently.

Healthcare providers administer it once per month as a subcutaneous injection. Then, the medication slowly releases buprenorphine throughout the entire month. Consequently, you get consistent medication levels without daily pills or films.

The active ingredient in Sublocade is buprenorphine. This is a partial opioid agonist. In other words, it binds to the same brain receptors that other opioids target. However, buprenorphine produces much milder effects. Therefore, it reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without creating intense euphoria. This unique property makes it ideal for supporting long-term recovery.

Learn more about buprenorphine from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

How Sublocade is Different From Other Treatments

Monthly Injection Format Your healthcare provider administers Sublocade in the office. Consequently, there’s no medication to manage at home.

No Daily Medication Required You don’t need to remember daily doses. Instead, one injection provides month-long coverage.

Extended-Release Formula Works All Month The medication provides consistent levels for 28-30 days. As a result, you avoid daily ups and downs.

Reduced Misuse Potential Since providers give all doses, the medication cannot be diverted. Therefore, this reduces safety concerns.

Convenient Monthly Visits You simply visit the office once per month. Additionally, this makes treatment fit easily into your schedule.

What Makes Sublocade Unique

Sublocade uses an innovative depot injection system. When injected under the skin in the abdominal area, something remarkable happens. The medication forms a solid biodegradable depot. Then, it slowly releases buprenorphine over 28-30 days.

This eliminates the peaks and valleys associated with daily medication. As a result, you get steady support throughout your entire recovery journey. Moreover, alternative injection sites include the thigh, buttock, or upper arm.

How Sublocade Works in Your Recovery

Clinical Evidence and Research

Clinical research demonstrates strong effectiveness. In fact, studies show impressive results for Sublocade in supporting recovery.

According to FDA-approved research studies, patients on Sublocade achieve significantly better outcomes:

Treatment Success Rates:

Patients are 14 times more likely to achieve treatment success with Sublocade plus counseling
Specifically, 28% of patients on Sublocade plus counseling achieved success
In comparison, only 2% on placebo plus counseling achieved success
Treatment success means remaining opioid-free for at least 80% of treatment weeks

Additional Benefits Include:

Blocks the rewarding effects of opioids, reducing relapse appeal
Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms for the entire month
Long-acting protection that continues working during stress or triggers
Improved retention in treatment compared to daily medications

Same-Day Start Option

One of Sublocade’s most significant advantages is quick treatment access. For instance, patients already taking buprenorphine can switch to Sublocade the same day.

Even if you’re not currently on buprenorphine, you may still start quickly. In this case, you’ll receive your first injection after a test dose. First, your provider gives a small amount of oral buprenorphine. Then, they monitor you for one hour to ensure tolerability. If you respond well, you can receive your first Sublocade injection that same day.

Proven Benefits of Sublocade Treatment

Research consistently demonstrates that Suboxone treatment dramatically improves recovery outcomes:

No Daily Medication

Skip the daily routine of taking pills or dissolving films. Sublocade provides continuous medication delivery for an entire month with a single injection, allowing you to focus on your recovery rather than managing daily doses.

Blocks Opioid Effects

Sublocade occupies opioid receptors in your brain, blocking the euphoric effects if you were to use other opioids. This reduces the reinforcement of drug use and supports your commitment to recovery.

Improved Quality of Life

Research shows that patients on Sublocade experience significant improvements in daily functioning, relationships, employment stability, and overall quality of life compared to continued opioid use.

Consistent Medication Levels

Unlike daily medications that can have peaks and valleys in blood levels, Sublocade maintains steady buprenorphine concentrations throughout the month. This means no daily ups and downs—just consistent support.

Reduced Stigma

Without the need to carry or take daily medication, many patients report feeling less stigma associated with their treatment. Monthly office visits for your injection become part of a normal healthcare routine.

Privacy and Convenience

Since Sublocade is only administered in a healthcare setting, there's no medication to store at home, no risk of others discovering your treatment, and no concern about medication diversion.

Our Sublocade Treatment ProcessStep-by-Step Journey to Recovery

Your journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation by our medical team. We’ll review your substance use history, current health status, treatment goals, and determine if Sublocade is the right choice for your recovery. This assessment includes a physical examination, discussion of your opioid use patterns, and review of any previous treatment experiences.

Together with your provider, you’ll develop a personalized treatment plan that includes Sublocade medication, counseling frequency, case management needs, and recovery goals. We’ll also verify insurance coverage and discuss any financial assistance programs that may be available.

If you’re already taking buprenorphine (Suboxone, Zubsolv, etc.), you can typically switch to Sublocade the same day. If you’re new to buprenorphine treatment, you’ll receive a test dose of oral buprenorphine and be monitored for one hour. If you tolerate it well, you can receive your first Sublocade injection that same day.

After your initial injection, you’ll return for your second dose between 1 week to 1 month later (early dosing helps build medication levels faster). After the first two 300mg doses, you’ll receive ongoing monthly injections at a maintenance dose, typically 100mg or 300mg based on your clinical response.

Between injections, you’ll participate in individual counseling, group therapy sessions, and case management support. Our team monitors your progress, addresses any challenges, and adjusts your treatment plan as needed to support your long-term success.

As you progress in recovery, we’ll work with you to develop relapse prevention strategies, improve coping skills, rebuild relationships, and achieve your personal goals. Many patients continue Sublocade treatment for 6-12 months or longer, depending on their individual needs.

Comprehensive Support Services

Recovery involves more than just medication. Our integrated approach addresses all aspects of your well-being.

Mental Health Treatment

Addiction rarely occurs in isolation. Many individuals struggling with opioid use disorder also experience co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Our integrated treatment approach addresses both addiction and mental health simultaneously, providing therapy and psychiatric support as needed to support whole-person healing.

Case Management

Recovery can be challenging when you're dealing with unstable housing, unemployment, legal issues, or transportation barriers. That's where our case managers come in. They help you navigate practical challenges that could derail your progress, connecting you with housing assistance, employment support, and legal advocacy when needed. They can also help coordinate transportation to appointments and guide you through the often-confusing process of insurance navigation, so you can focus on your recovery instead of administrative headaches.

Family Support

Addiction doesn't just affect individuals—it impacts entire families. We offer family education sessions to help your loved ones understand addiction and recovery, along with communication workshops that teach healthier ways to interact. Our healing relationship counseling addresses the damage that addiction may have caused, and we provide support groups where family members can connect with others facing similar challenges. When families heal together, everyone's recovery becomes stronger.

How Does Sublocade Compare?

SUBLOCADE VS. SUBOXONE: KEY DIFFERENCES

UNDERSTANDING YOUR OPTIONS

Many patients wonder about the difference between Sublocade and Suboxone. Additionally, they want to know which option might be better for their recovery. Both medications contain buprenorphine and are highly effective. However, they differ in important ways.

Delivery Method

Suboxone is taken daily as a sublingual film or tablet. Specifically, it dissolves under your tongue. In contrast, Sublocade is a once-monthly injection. Moreover, your healthcare provider administers it in the office.

Does Sublocade Have Naloxone in It?

This is a common question. Unlike Suboxone, Sublocade contains only buprenorphine. Specifically, Suboxone contains both buprenorphine and naloxone.

The naloxone in Suboxone serves a specific purpose. Namely, it’s included to deter misuse by injection. However, since providers administer all Sublocade doses, naloxone isn’t necessary. Therefore, the formulation includes only buprenorphine.

Convenience Factor

Sublocade eliminates the daily medication routine. As a result, it’s ideal for patients who struggle with daily adherence. Additionally, it works well for those with busy schedules. Furthermore, it benefits individuals who prefer not to keep medication at home.

Medication Levels

Suboxone can have peaks and valleys in blood levels. Specifically, this depends on when you take your dose. In contrast, Sublocade provides steady, consistent medication levels all month long. Therefore, you experience more stable symptom control.

Switching from Suboxone to Sublocade

Transitioning between medications is straightforward. In fact, patients stable on Suboxone can typically switch to Sublocade the same day. Therefore, the process is simple and convenient.

HOW LONG DOES SUBLOCADE STAY IN YOUR SYSTEM?

Understanding Duration and Effects

This is one of the most common questions about Sublocade. The extended-release formulation means buprenorphine remains in your body for an extended period. However, understanding the timeline is important.

Active Treatment Period

Each Sublocade injection provides therapeutic medication levels for 28-30 days. Therefore, monthly dosing maintains consistent treatment effects. Additionally, you remain protected throughout the entire month.

After Stopping Treatment

Due to its long-acting nature, Sublocade continues working after your last dose. Specifically, detectable levels of buprenorphine can remain for several months. According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, this gradual decline helps reduce withdrawal severity.

Essentially, your body slowly metabolizes the remaining medication over time. As a result, this provides a natural taper effect. Therefore, withdrawal symptoms are typically milder than with short-acting medications.

Clinical Implications

This extended duration has several important implications. First, even if you miss an appointment by 1-2 weeks, you typically won’t experience significant withdrawal. Additionally, considerations about drug interactions remain relevant for months after stopping.

Furthermore, pain management considerations may continue to be important. Therefore, inform all your healthcare providers about Sublocade treatment history.

CommonHealth Recovery is an In-Network Provider

Common Questions About Suboxone Treatment

What happens if you use opioids while on Sublocade?

Sublocade blocks the euphoric effects of most opioids due to buprenorphine’s strong binding to opioid receptors. If you were to use other opioids while on Sublocade, you likely would not experience the expected “high.” However, taking high doses of opioids in an attempt to override this blocking effect is dangerous and can lead to overdose. It’s important to be honest with your treatment team about any use so they can provide appropriate support.

What is the Sublocade withdrawal timeline?

If you stop Sublocade treatment, the withdrawal timeline is typically much milder and more gradual than with short-acting opioids or even daily buprenorphine medications. Because medication levels decline slowly over several months, withdrawal symptoms are usually minimal. Some patients experience mild discomfort 2-4 weeks after their last expected injection, but symptoms are generally manageable. Your provider can help you plan for discontinuation if needed.

Is Sublocade the same as Suboxone?

No, while both contain buprenorphine, they are different formulations. Sublocade is a monthly injection, while Suboxone is a daily sublingual medication. Sublocade contains only buprenorphine, whereas Suboxone contains both buprenorphine and naloxone. Both are effective; the choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

What are Sublocade side effects?

Common side effects include injection site reactions (pain, redness, itching), constipation, nausea, headache, and fatigue. Most side effects are mild and improve over time. Serious but rare side effects can include respiratory depression (especially if combined with benzodiazepines or alcohol), serious injection site reactions requiring medical attention, and allergic reactions. Your provider will monitor you closely, especially after your first injection.

How much does Sublocade cost?

The cost of Sublocade varies depending on your insurance coverage. Most insurance plans, including Kentucky Medicaid, cover Sublocade treatment. The manufacturer also offers a copay assistance program for eligible patients. At CommonHealth Recovery, our billing team will verify your insurance coverage and help you understand your out-of-pocket costs before starting treatment.

Can I get Sublocade if I haven't taken buprenorphine before?

Yes! Sublocade now offers a same-day start option even for patients who have never taken buprenorphine. Your provider will give you a small test dose of oral buprenorphine and monitor you for one hour. If you tolerate it well and don’t experience adverse effects, you can receive your first Sublocade injection that same day.

Where is the Sublocade injection given?

Sublocade is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) into the abdomen. Alternative injection sites include the thigh, buttock, or back of the upper arm. Your provider will discuss site options and preferences with you. The injection takes just a few seconds to administer.

How long should I stay on Sublocade?

The optimal duration of treatment varies by individual. Research shows that longer treatment periods (12+ months) are associated with better long-term outcomes. Some patients continue Sublocade for a year or more, while others may transition to other forms of MAT or eventually discontinue medication under medical supervision. Your provider will work with you to determine the best timeline for your unique situation.

Will Sublocade show up on a drug test?

Standard drug tests typically don’t check for buprenorphine. However, specialized tests can detect it if specifically requested. If you’re required to undergo drug testing for employment or legal purposes, it’s important to disclose your Sublocade treatment and have documentation from your provider confirming you’re in legitimate medical treatment.

Can I stop Sublocade anytime?

Yes, you can discontinue Sublocade treatment at any time. However, it’s best to work with your provider to create a plan rather than abruptly stopping. Because medication levels decline gradually, you’ll need monitoring for several months after your last injection to address any withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse. Your provider can help you create a discontinuation plan that supports your ongoing recovery.

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