Sublocade Administration Instructions
This content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information contained herein should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health condition, and those seeking medical advice or guidance should consult with a licensed and qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have learned here or elsewhere.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. No physician-patient or provider-patient relationship is created by this website or its use. Boulder Care makes no representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use.
Long-Acting Injectable Buprenorphine (Sublocade) Administration Information
Preparing for Your Sublocade Injection
The medicine is injected just under your skin into the fatty tissue of your stomach, where it slowly releases into your body over the month.
Other sites you may receive your injection include the thigh, buttock, or back of arm. 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 month.
- Helps proper distribution and absorption of medication
- Helps keep steady levels of buprenorphine in your system
It is okay to return to a previously used site after at least one month using a different site.
Common rotation example:
- Right upper stomach
- Right lower stomach
- Left upper stomach
- Left lower stomach
What Does It Feel Like?
Many people describe the injection sensation as a temporary burning or pressure as the medicine is delivered. This usually improves within a minute or two.
- A small lump may be seen or felt — this is normal and expected.
- The lump will get smaller over the month as the medicine is absorbed.
- A pharmacist or nurse will apply a bandage to the site afterward.
Tips That May Help With Discomfort
Ice is the most effective intervention:
- Place an ice pack over the injection site for 10 minutes before the injection.
- Some patients find it helpful to reapply ice after the injection as well.
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 bump/lump.
Video resource:
*Link to Sublocade What to Expect Video for Patient Education*
What If I Miss My Injection?
If it’s been less than 6 weeks since your last injection:
- Contact your pharmacy to reschedule and receive your dose.
If it’s been more than 6 weeks since your last 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.
This content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information contained herein should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health condition, and those seeking medical advice or guidance should consult with a licensed and qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have learned here or elsewhere.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. No physician–patient or provider–patient relationship is created by this website or its use. Boulder Care makes no representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use.