Brixadi Administration Information
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Long-Acting Injectable Buprenorphine (Brixadi) Administration Information
Preparing for Your Brixadi Injection
The medicine is injected just under your skin into the fatty tissue of your stomach, thigh, buttock, or back of arm, where it slowly releases into your body over the week or month.
The exact location depends on:
- Fatty tissue availability
- Formulation/dose
- Shared decision-making between you and your pharmacist or nurse
Rotation of Injection Sites
It is important to rotate injection sites each week or month.
- Helps proper distribution and absorption of medication
- Helps keep steady levels of buprenorphine in your system
Weekly injections: It is okay to return to a previously used site after at least 8 weeks using a different site.
Monthly injections: It is ok to return to a previously used site after at least 1 month using a different site.
Each location pictured below has multiple injection site options within it. Example: Your Right Thigh has 4 injection sites.
What Does It Feel Like?
Many people describe the injection sensation as a very mild temporary burning or pressure as the medicine is delivered. This usually improves within a minute or two.
- A small lump is rarely seen or felt, but may be noticed depending on body type.
- If you notice a very small lump, this will get smaller over the week or month as the medicine is absorbed.
- A pharmacist or nurse may apply a bandage to the site afterward.
Tips That May Help With Discomfort
Many individuals don’t feel a need for interventions with Brixadi but it is good to know your options!
Ice is the most effective intervention:
- Place an ice pack over the injection site for 5-10 minutes before the injection.
Optional: Lidocaine Cream
- Available over-the-counter at your pharmacy.
- Apply a small amount to a bandage, then place it over the injection site.
- Ice can then go over the top of the bandage.
Breathing techniques:
- Try breathing in, then slowly exhaling as the medication is delivered.
Other tips: Avoid the belt line or waistband area. Do not press or rub the injection site.
Video resource: [Link to Brixadi Dosing and Administration Video] (https://www.brixadihcp.com/dosing-and-administration/individualizing-treatment/)
What If I Miss My Injection?
If it’s been less than 9 days since your last Weekly injection or less than 5 weeks since your last Monthly injection:
- Contact your pharmacy to reschedule and receive your dose.
If it’s been more than 9 days since your last Weekly injection or more than 5 weeks since your last Monthly injection:
- Reach out to Boulder through the app for direction and next steps.
- Follow up with your clinician — we are here to support you.
- You may also request a bridge prescription of your oral buprenorphine formulation until your next scheduled visit.
Reference
Questions, concerns, or feedback?
You can send a message to your Care Team in the app with non-urgent questions or feedback, or call us at 888-316-0451.