Addiction recovery often involves more than just willpower it requires medical intervention and ongoing support. For individuals struggling with opioid use disorder, Sublocade has become a powerful tool in treatment. This medication, which contains extended-release buprenorphine, is designed to help people reduce cravings, avoid relapse, and focus on their recovery journey.

But a common question patients and families ask is: “ How Long Does Sublocade Stay In Your System? "  Understanding the timeline of this medication, its effects, and how long it lingers in the body can help you make informed decisions about your recovery or that of a loved one.

What Is Sublocade?

Sublocade is an FDA-approved prescription medication used in the treatment of moderate to severe opioid use disorder. It is an extended-release injection of buprenorphine, administered once a month by a healthcare professional.

Buprenorphine works by activating opioid receptors in the brain. Unlike full opioids (such as heroin, fentanyl, or oxycodone), it does not produce the same intense “high.” Instead, it reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it easier for individuals to stop misusing opioids.

Sublocade is given as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin of the abdomen) and slowly releases buprenorphine into the bloodstream over the course of a month. This controlled release eliminates the need for daily dosing, which is common with other medications like Suboxone.

How Long Does Sublocade Stay in Your System?

The exact amount of time Sublocade remains in your system varies depending on your metabolism, dosage, and treatment length. However, because Sublocade is designed to release buprenorphine slowly and consistently, it stays in the body much longer than most medications.

On average:

• Sublocade has a half-life of 43 to 60 days.
  (Half-life is the time it takes for half of the medication to leave your body.)

• Because of this long half-life, Sublocade can remain in your system for several months after your last injection. Some studies suggest traces may be detectable for up to a year, though the therapeutic effects diminish earlier.

• The drug is released gradually from the injection site, which means it doesn’t exit your body immediately, even if you stop receiving injections.

Typical Timeline

1. First Month After Injection – Sublocade steadily releases buprenorphine, keeping opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms under control.

2. After Stopping Treatment – It can take 2 to 5 months for buprenorphine levels to drop significantly, depending on your dosage and treatment history.

3. Long-Term Detection – In some cases, low levels may remain detectable in the system for 6–12 months.

Factors That Affect How Long Sublocade Stays in the Body

Not everyone processes Sublocade at the same rate. Several factors influence how long it remains active in your system:

1. Dosage and Duration of Use

   • Higher doses (e.g., 300 mg vs. 100 mg) will take longer to fully leave the body.

   • Long-term users may also accumulate more of the medication, extending its presence in the system.

2. Metabolism and Body Composition

   • People with a faster metabolism may process the drug more quickly.

   • Body fat percentage can affect how long buprenorphine is stored, since the drug is partly fat-soluble.

3. Organ Health

   • The liver is primarily responsible for breaking down buprenorphine. Individuals with liver impairment may process the drug more slowly.

4. Individual Variations

   • Age, genetics, weight, and overall health can all influence how long Sublocade remains in your body.

Drug Testing and Sublocade

Another common concern is whether Sublocade shows up on a drug test. The answer depends on the type of test being used:

• Standard Drug Tests – Most routine tests do not check for buprenorphine unless specifically ordered.

• Buprenorphine-Specific Tests – Sublocade will show up if the test is designed to detect buprenorphine or its metabolites.

• Detection Window – Buprenorphine from Sublocade may be detectable in urine for several months after the last injection, depending on dose and individual metabolism.

For those in treatment programs, this is generally not an issue, since Sublocade is a prescribed medication. However, it's important to disclose your treatment to medical providers or employers if drug testing is required.

Benefits of Sublocade for Recovery

While the long duration of Sublocade in the body may raise questions, it is also what makes the medication so effective. Here are some key benefits:

1. Convenience – A once-a-month injection eliminates the need for daily dosing.

2. Consistency – Provides a steady release of medication, reducing the risk of missing doses or misusing medication.

3. Reduced Relapse Risk – Helps manage cravings and withdrawal, improving the chances of relapse.

4. Discretion – Patients don't need to carry medication, reduce stigma and the temptation to misuse it.

5. Long-Term Support – Even after stopping treatment, the medication continues working for weeks to months, creating a smoother transition.

Possible Side Effects of Sublocade

Like any medication, Sublocade can cause side effects. Some of the most common include:

• Injection site pain or irritation

• Headache

• Constipation

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fatigue or drowsiness

In rare cases, more serious complications can occur. Always consult your doctor if you experience unusual or severe symptoms.

Final Thoughts

So, how long does Sublocade stay in your system? The answer depends on many factors, but in general, Sublocade remains in the body for 2–5 months after the last injection with traces sometimes detectable for up to a year.