When it comes to treating opioid use disorder, one of the most effective modern medications is Sublocade. This long-acting medication offers patients freedom from daily dosing and helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it a powerful tool in recovery. But a common question many people have is: “How Long Does Sublocade Stay In Your System?”

Understanding how Sublocade works, how long it remains active in the body, and how it affects drug tests can provide clarity for patients, families, and healthcare providers.

What Is Sublocade?

Sublocade is an injectable medication that contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist. Unlike traditional buprenorphine (commonly taken as Suboxone or Subutex), which must be taken daily, Sublocade is administered as a once-a-month injection under the skin (subcutaneous).

The medication is delivered in a gel-like form that slowly releases buprenorphine into the bloodstream over several weeks. This extended-release formulation provides steady levels of medication in the body, preventing the ups and downs associated with daily pills or films.

Sublocade is FDA-approved and designed specifically for patients with moderate to severe opioid use disorder, offering both convenience and long-term stability.

How Does Sublocade Work in the Body?

Sublocade’s active ingredient, buprenorphine, binds to the same receptors in the brain that opioids like heroin, fentanyl, or oxycodone target. However, it works differently:

• It partially activates opioid receptors, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same intense high as full opioids.

• It has a “ceiling effect,” meaning higher doses don’t increase effects significantly, lowering the risk of misuse.

• It blocks other opioids from binding to receptors, making it harder for individuals to feel the effects of drugs if they relapse.

The extended-release injection keeps steady amounts of buprenorphine in the system, which is why Sublocade can remain active for weeks after administration.

How Long Does Sublocade Stay in Your System?

The length of time Sublocade remains in the body depends on several factors, but generally:

• Half-life: Sublocade has a long half-life of 43 to 60 days, meaning it takes this amount of time for the body to eliminate half of the drug.

• Duration in the body: Because of this long half-life, Sublocade can stay in the system for several months after the last injection. In some cases, traces of buprenorphine from Sublocade have been detected up to 5 to 6 months after the final dose.

• Active effects: While the drug may remain detectable for months, its therapeutic effects usually last around 4 to 8 weeks, which is why injections are scheduled monthly.

Factors That Influence How Long Sublocade Stays in the System

Not everyone metabolizes medications the same way. Several factors can impact how long Sublocade remains in your body:

1. Dosage and Frequency – Higher doses or longer-term use of Sublocade can mean the drug lingers longer in the body.

2. Metabolism – Individuals with faster metabolisms may eliminate the drug more quickly.

3. Body Fat – Sublocade is stored in fatty tissue before it is slowly released, so people with higher body fat may retain it longer.

4. Liver Function – Since buprenorphine is processed by the liver, impaired liver function can extend the time it remains in the body.

5. Individual Differences – Genetics, age, weight, and overall health can all play a role in how quickly or slowly the body processes Sublocade.

Will Sublocade Show Up on a Drug Test?

Another common concern is whether Sublocade will appear on drug tests. The answer depends on the type of test:

• Standard Drug Tests – Most routine drug tests (like workplace screenings) do not test for buprenorphine. Therefore, Sublocade usually won’t show up on a basic panel.

• Specialized Tests – Certain tests, such as those used in medical or legal settings, can detect buprenorphine. If specifically screened for, Sublocade will be detectable for weeks to months after the last dose.

• Clinical Testing – Doctors may test buprenorphine levels to ensure treatment compliance.

It’s important to let employers, legal authorities, or healthcare providers know if you are on Sublocade to avoid misunderstandings.

Benefits of Sublocade’s Long-Lasting Effects

The fact that Sublocade stays in the system for such a long time can be seen as a major advantage:

• Reduced Relapse Risk – Patients don’t have to remember daily doses, lowering the chances of skipping medication.

• Stability – Steady levels of buprenorphine mean fewer highs and lows in mood or withdrawal.

• Convenience – Monthly injections are easier to manage compared to daily pills or films.

• Improved Compliance – Because Sublocade lasts so long, treatment adherence is higher.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While Sublocade has many benefits, its long-lasting nature also comes with considerations:

• Side Effects – If side effects occur, they may last for weeks since the drug remains in the system.

• Commitment – Once injected, Sublocade cannot be easily removed, so patients must commit to treatment.

• Transition Period – Some patients may need time to adjust when switching from daily buprenorphine (Suboxone) to monthly Sublocade injections.

How to Safely Stop Sublocade

If you and your doctor decide to stop Sublocade, it’s important to plan carefully. Because the drug stays in your system for months, withdrawal symptoms may be delayed and gradual. Medical supervision and a structured tapering plan can help ease the transition.

Never attempt to stop Sublocade suddenly without guidance, as this could trigger withdrawal or increase the risk of relapse.

Conclusion

So, how long does Sublocade stay in your system? On average, Sublocade remains active for about a month, but traces of buprenorphine can remain detectable for 2 to 6 months after the last injection. Factors like dosage, metabolism, liver function, and body fat can all influence this timeline.

For patients in recovery, this long duration can be both reassuring and beneficial, providing consistency and reducing the daily burden of managing opioid use disorder. However, it also means that treatment decisions must be made thoughtfully, as the effects cannot be quickly reversed.

If you or a loved one is considering Sublocade, consult with a medical professional to determine whether it’s the right choice for your recovery journey. With the right plan, Sublocade can be a powerful step toward long-term sobriety and a healthier future.