Recovering from opioid addiction requires a personalized approach, and choosing the most effective treatment plays a key role in lasting progress.
For those exploring injectable options for opioid use disorder (OUD), two common choices are Brixadi vs. Sublocade. Although both offer comparable benefits in reducing cravings and supporting recovery, each has unique characteristics that may make one a better fit depending on individual needs.
At Crossroads Treatment Centers, we are dedicated to delivering comprehensive opioid use disorder treatment and support for individuals struggling with addiction. Our services include Sublocade, Brixadi and other effective treatment options designed to support your path to recovery.
What Is Sublocade?
Sublocade is a long-acting injectable form of Buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist used in the treatment of opioid addiction.
Unlike Suboxone, which is taken orally, Sublocade is administered once a month as an injection, allowing for a steady release of Buprenorphine. This consistent delivery helps stabilize opioid receptors in the brain, reduces cravings and prevents withdrawal symptoms for up to 30 days.
Sublocade is often recommended for individuals who have already stabilized on oral buprenorphine or Suboxone and are seeking a convenient and consistent monthly option.
What Is Brixadi?
Brixadi is another Buprenorphine-based injectable treatment designed for opioid use disorder. Like Sublocade, it provides long-acting effects but introduces flexibility through both weekly and monthly dosing options. This makes Brixadi particularly useful for patients in earlier recovery stages who may need closer stabilization.
Brixadi is administered by a healthcare provider and delivers a controlled release of Buprenorphine to reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms. Multiple dosing strengths are available, which allows treatment plans to be adjusted based on individual progress and needs.
Key Differences Between Brixadi vs. Sublocade
While Sublocade and Brixadi are both used to treat opioid addiction, they differ in several important ways. Understanding these differences will help you and your healthcare provider determine which option is best for your recovery process.
Dosing Frequency
- Sublocade: Administered once a month. It’s a convenient option for individuals who are looking for fewer visits to the healthcare provider.
- Brixadi: Available in both weekly and monthly injections. This flexibility allows healthcare providers to adjust dosing based on individual needs, which is especially helpful for patients who may require more careful stabilization early on.
Flexibility in Dosing
- Sublocade: Only available in one monthly injection strength, which may not be suitable for individuals who need more personalized dosing.
- Brixadi: Offers multiple dosing options, including both weekly and monthly injections. This allows for greater flexibility, particularly for individuals who are newer to treatment or may need more frequent adjustments.
Risk of Misuse
Both Sublocade and Brixadi carry a lower risk of misuse compared to oral Buprenorphine treatments. However, there are subtle differences:
- Sublocade: As an injectable medication, it is harder to misuse. The slow, controlled release of Buprenorphine over 30 days minimizes the potential for misuse.
- Brixadi: An injectable with the flexibility of both weekly and monthly injections. Its formulation reduces the potential for misuse compared to oral Buprenorphine.
Onset of Action
- Sublocade: After the first injection, it may take a few days for the full effects of Sublocade to be felt. Its slow-release formulation helps guarantee stable medication levels over the month.
- Brixadi: Provides quicker stabilization, especially for those who opt for weekly injections. This may be more appropriate for patients who need faster relief.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Deciding between Brixadi vs. Sublocade depends on your individual recovery needs and goals. Here are some considerations to help guide your decision:
Recovery Stage
If you are already stabilized on oral Buprenorphine (like Suboxone) and are looking for a longer-acting, more convenient treatment, Sublocade may be the right choice. It provides the stability of a once-monthly injection, eliminating the need for daily dosing.
If you are earlier in recovery and need more flexibility in your treatment regimen, Brixadi’s weekly options may be beneficial. Its flexibility allows for more tailored treatment, especially for individuals who may require additional stabilization.
Lifestyle Preferences
For individuals who prefer fewer visits to the healthcare provider and a more predictable treatment schedule, Sublocade’s monthly injections may be more convenient. However, if you don’t mind weekly visits and require the ability to have treatment levels adjusted more frequently, weekly injections with Brixadi may be a better fit.
Risk of Misuse
Both medications help reduce the risk of misuse compared to oral treatments. However, if you are particularly concerned about misuse or have struggled with oral medications in the past, the injectable nature of both Sublocade and Brixadi presents a safer alternative.
Dosing Needs
For individuals who require more frequent adjustments or flexibility in their treatment plan, Brixadi comes with more options, including both weekly and monthly injections. This can be helpful if you need a more personalized approach to your treatment.
Getting Started with Sublocade or Brixadi
If you’re interested in switching to Sublocade or Brixadi, the first step is to consult with a healthcare provider specializing in opioid use disorder treatment. They will assess your medical history, current treatment plan and recovery goals to recommend the best medication for you.
Both Sublocade and Brixadi are part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes addiction treatment services such as counseling. Medication alone is not enough for long-term recovery, and these treatments should always be combined with behavioral therapy for the best results.
Insurance and Financial Support
At Crossroads Treatment Centers, we deliver opioid use disorder treatment through a variety of medications, including Sublocade and Brixadi. We accept most major insurances, including Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE and VA CCN, to help cover the cost of treatment. Additionally, we offer self-pay options and financial assistance for those who qualify.
We are proud to be CARF-accredited, meaning our treatment services meet high standards for quality care and we are committed to providing effective support for your recovery.
Both Sublocade and Brixadi are effective treatment options for opioid use disorder, each with its unique benefits. The decision between the two depends on factors like your treatment needs, lifestyle preferences and the stage of your recovery. At Crossroads Treatment Centers, we are here to help you choose the right treatment option for your recovery. If you are considering Sublocade or Brixadi, contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about how these medications can support your long-term recovery.