Sublocade is a promising, relatively new treatment option for opioid use disorder. Opioid use has become an epidemic. It ravages communities, tearing families apart and leaving a path of destruction. And for many people, there is still a lot of shame and stigma attached to it.
But what if we could change the way we think about it? What if we could see it as a serious medical condition that requires treatment?
Sublocade is a relatively new treatment option for opioid use disorder that offers hope for those struggling with this addiction. In addition, this new medication may help change how we think about this disease.
Let’s take a closer look at opioid use disorder and how Sublocade could be an important new treatment option.
What is Opioid Use Disorder?
Opioid use disorder is a serious medical condition characterized by an uncontrollable urge to use opioids, despite the harmful consequences. People with opioid use disorder may feel like they cannot stop using opioids, even when they want to. This can have dangerous effects, including job loss, financial problems, and relationship difficulties. Opioids include prescription medications such as oxycodone (OxyContin) and hydrocodone (Vicodin) and illegal drugs such as heroin.
Opioid Use Disorder: What Treatment Is Available?
There are a few different treatment options. When used in combination, especially with medication-assisted treatment, individuals struggling with addiction have the highest likelihood of long-term success. The most common treatment options include:
- Behavioral therapy can help people change their behavior and thoughts around opioid use.
- Medications can be used to help people stop using opioids. In addition, they can also make it easier to stay in treatment. Medications to treat opioid use disorder include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
- Support groups provide social and emotional support for people with opioid use disorder. They can help people stay in treatment and recovery.
What is Sublocade?
Sublocade was introduced and approved by the FDA in 2017. It has proven to be promising in the treatment of opioid use disorder.
Sublocade is an injectable medication that is given once a month. It works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain, which reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This can help people with opioid use disorder stay in treatment and recovery.
Sublocade is administered by a health care provider via an injection under the skin (subcutaneous) into the abdomen and can be received at a clinic or doctor’s office.
Sublocade has received a lot of praise from doctors in the United States, providing a much longer-lasting solution than other opioid treatments. The medication lasts for four weeks, thus eliminating the need for daily oral medication.
While Sublocade is not a cure for opioid use disorder, it can be an essential tool in treating this disease by helping you manage and recover from your condition.
Opioid Use Disorder: How Can We Help?
Here at Renew Health Addiction and Recovery Services, we understand opioid use disorder and the struggles that come with it. We also know that the treatments available can help people on their road to recovery, such as Sublocade.
It’s important to talk to someone with knowledge and experience to find out the best option for your personal situation, and that’s where we can help.
Renew Health prides itself on being an inclusive opioid addiction treatment provider. We want to help you heal and recover in whatever way possible. Contact us today for a friendly, non-judgmental, and confidential chat, and know that we’re with you every step of the way.
