Sublocade Treatment at Nova Transformations: Once-Monthly Opioid Addiction Care
No daily pills. No ups and downs. One injection, once a month—so you can focus on your recovery, not your medication.
What Is Sublocade?
Sublocade is an FDA-approved, once-monthly injectable form of buprenorphine for treating opioid addiction. Unlike daily medications like Suboxone, Sublocade is administered as a single injection that slowly releases medication throughout the month—providing steady levels with no daily highs and lows. Nova Transformations now offers Sublocade as part of our comprehensive addiction treatment program.
Why Sublocade Is Changing Opioid Treatment
If you’ve struggled to stay consistent with daily medication, or if you’re tired of the ups and downs that can come with sublingual buprenorphine, Sublocade offers a different approach.
With Sublocade, you receive one injection per month at our facility. The medication forms a small depot under your skin that gradually releases buprenorphine at steady levels throughout the month. No pills to remember. No daily routine to maintain. Just consistent medication working in the background while you focus on building your new life in recovery.
In clinical studies, 28% of patients on Sublocade plus counseling achieved treatment success (defined as being opioid-free for at least 80% of the study period) compared to just 2% on placebo plus counseling.
How Sublocade Works
Sublocade uses a unique delivery system that provides consistent medication levels all month long:
Injection
A healthcare provider administers Sublocade as a small injection in your abdomen once per month.
Depot Forms
The liquid medication forms a small solid gel (depot) under the skin that you may feel as a small bump.
Steady Release
Buprenorphine is gradually released at consistent levels throughout the month—no daily peaks and valleys.
Cravings Blocked
The steady medication level reduces cravings and blocks the effects of other opioids, supporting your recovery.
Benefits of Sublocade Treatment
No Daily Medication to Remember
Forget about daily doses. With one monthly injection, you eliminate the risk of missing doses or the daily reminder of your medication.
Consistent Medication Levels
Sublocade provides steady buprenorphine levels all month—no daily ups and downs that can occur with sublingual medications.
Reduced Cravings
The constant presence of buprenorphine helps reduce cravings more effectively than medications that fluctuate throughout the day.
Blocks Other Opioids
With steady medication levels, Sublocade consistently blocks the rewarding effects of other opioids, reducing the appeal of using.
More Privacy
No daily medication means no films or tablets to carry, no daily dosing that others might notice, and no pharmacy pickups.
Focus on Recovery
When your medication is working steadily in the background, you can focus your energy on therapy, rebuilding relationships, and living your life.
Sublocade vs. Suboxone: What’s the Difference?
Both medications contain buprenorphine and are effective treatments for opioid addiction. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Sublocade | Suboxone |
|---|---|---|
| How It’s Taken | Monthly injection by provider | Daily film/tablet under tongue |
| Frequency | Once per month | Once or twice daily |
| Medication Levels | Steady all month | Peaks and valleys throughout day |
| Self-Administered? | No (provider only) | Yes (at home) |
| Pharmacy Pickup | Not required | Monthly pickup |
| Contains Naloxone? | No | Yes |
| Best For | Those wanting fewer doses, steady levels | Those wanting flexibility, control |
Sublocade by the Numbers
Is Sublocade Right for You?
Sublocade may be a good fit if you:
Struggle with Daily Medication
If you have trouble remembering to take Suboxone every day, or if missed doses have led to setbacks, Sublocade removes that variable.
Experience Ups and Downs
Some people feel withdrawal symptoms or cravings between doses of sublingual buprenorphine. Sublocade’s steady release can help.
Want More Privacy
If carrying medication or daily dosing feels stigmatizing or inconvenient, monthly injections offer more discretion.
Are Ready to Simplify
If you’re stable in recovery and want to focus less on medication and more on living, Sublocade can support that transition.
Important: Starting Sublocade
Sublocade is for adults with moderate to severe opioid addiction. If you’re already taking buprenorphine (Suboxone), you may be able to switch to Sublocade the same day. If you’re new to buprenorphine, you’ll receive a small test dose first to ensure you tolerate the medication before receiving your first Sublocade injection.
What to Expect at Nova Transformations
Here’s what your Sublocade treatment looks like with us:
Initial Consultation
We’ll discuss your history, current treatment, and whether Sublocade is right for you. If you’re already on buprenorphine, we’ll review your dose and stability.
First Injection
Your first Sublocade injection is administered in our facility. You’ll be monitored afterward to ensure you’re feeling well before you leave.
Monthly Visits
After your first two injections, you’ll return monthly for your next dose. Visits are quick—usually just the injection and a brief check-in.
Ongoing Support
Sublocade is part of comprehensive treatment that includes counseling, therapy, and support. Medication alone isn’t enough—we’re here for all of it.
Why Choose Nova Transformations for Sublocade?
We’re not just a medication provider—we’re a full-service addiction treatment center. Here’s what sets us apart:
Comprehensive Care
Sublocade works best with counseling and support. Our PHP and IOP programs provide the therapy you need alongside medication.
Certified Providers
Sublocade can only be administered by certified healthcare providers through the SUBLOCADE REMS Program. Our team is fully certified.
Insurance Accepted
We accept most major insurance plans for Sublocade treatment. We’ll verify your coverage and explain your costs before you start.
Convenient Location
Located in Matthews, NC, we serve the entire Charlotte metro area. Easy access from I-485 and surrounding communities.
Insurance Coverage for Sublocade
Sublocade is covered by most major insurance plans under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act. Coverage typically includes:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- United Healthcare
- Aetna
- Cigna
- Most other major insurance plans
We offer free insurance verification to help you understand your coverage before starting treatment. Co-pay assistance programs may also be available to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Ready to Learn More About Sublocade?
Call Nova Transformations to discuss whether Sublocade is right for you. We’ll answer your questions, verify your insurance, and help you take the next step in your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sublocade
