Recovering from opioid addiction is one of the most courageous steps a person can take. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) plays a crucial role in that process, offering effective tools to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Two long-acting injectable medications — Brixadi and Sublocade — have become leading choices for individuals seeking consistent, reliable treatment options.

If you’re exploring recovery or helping a loved one through it, understanding how these medications work and what makes them different can help you make an informed, confident decision.

What Are Brixadi and Sublocade?

Brixadi and Sublocade are both long-acting injectable formulations of buprenorphine, a medication proven to reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine is known as a partial opioid agonist, which means it activates opioid receptors in the brain just enough to prevent withdrawal, but not enough to cause a high.

These injections are administered by healthcare professionals as part of a supervised treatment plan. Their goal is to stabilize brain chemistry, reduce relapse risk, and make recovery more sustainable by eliminating the need for daily medication.

How Do They Work?

Both medications release buprenorphine gradually over time, maintaining stable blood levels for a week or a month — depending on the treatment option. This steady delivery helps reduce the “ups and downs” associated with daily dosing, giving patients more freedom and peace of mind.

  • Sublocade is given as a once-monthly injection under the skin (subcutaneous).

  • Brixadi can be administered either weekly or monthly, offering flexibility that can be especially beneficial early in recovery.

Both are designed to make recovery simpler and safer by keeping consistent medication levels and minimizing the risk of missed doses or misuse.

Similarities Between Brixadi and Sublocade

While these two medications have distinct dosing schedules, they share many important similarities:

  • Both contain buprenorphine, the gold-standard MAT medication for opioid use disorder (OUD).

  • Both are administered by a healthcare provider in a controlled setting.

  • Both reduce cravings, prevent withdrawal, and block the euphoric effects of other opioids.

  • Both are part of a full recovery plan that includes counseling, behavioral therapy, and support groups.

In short, both Brixadi and Sublocade help patients maintain recovery by simplifying treatment and supporting long-term success.

Key Differences Between Brixadi and Sublocade

While their purpose is the same, there are some differences that can influence which option might be best for you.

1. Dosing Frequency

  • Brixadi offers both weekly and monthly injections, giving providers the flexibility to adjust doses based on your progress and comfort.

  • Sublocade provides monthly dosing only, which is ideal for patients who are already stable and want fewer clinic visits.

2. Dosage Options

  • Brixadi comes in multiple strengths for both weekly and monthly injections, allowing for gradual and precise dose adjustments.

  • Sublocade has two primary doses (100 mg and 300 mg), offering less flexibility in fine-tuning treatment.

3. Injection Experience

  • Brixadi uses a smaller injection volume and allows for more site options (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm).

  • Sublocade is injected under the skin of the abdomen only.

4. Stage of Recovery

  • Brixadi may suit those in early recovery, where close monitoring and flexible adjustments are needed.

  • Sublocade is often preferred for stable patients who benefit from a once-monthly visit and consistent dosing.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

The decision between Brixadi and Sublocade depends on your stage of recovery, lifestyle, and treatment goals. Your healthcare provider will consider:

  • How stable you are in your recovery journey

  • Whether you prefer fewer clinic visits or more frequent check-ins

  • Any past response to buprenorphine treatments

  • Your overall medical and mental health history

If you’re newly starting treatment, Brixadi’s weekly option can offer flexibility. For those who have stabilized and want simplicity, Sublocade’s monthly dosing might be more convenient.

No matter which you choose, both options are highly effective when combined with counseling, behavioral therapy, and ongoing support.

The Role of Support in Recovery

While medication is a powerful tool, long-term recovery also requires emotional and social support. Combining Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with counseling, therapy, and community programs creates the strongest foundation for lasting recovery.

Working with experienced addiction treatment professionals ensures your medication is managed properly and that you receive the emotional and mental support you deserve every step of the way.

Conclusion

Both Brixadi and Sublocade represent safer, simpler paths to overcoming opioid addiction. Their long-acting, controlled-release design offers freedom from daily medications and helps patients stay committed to recovery.

Your journey to healing is unique, and the right choice will depend on your goals, preferences, and provider’s guidance.

If you’re ready to take control of your recovery and explore your best treatment options, reach out to the Best Opioid & Suboxone Treatment in Portland, TN today. With expert care and compassionate support, you can find the strength and stability needed to reclaim your life — one step at a time.