Overcoming opioid addiction or opioid use disorder (OUD) can be a daunting challenge, particularly for individuals juggling demanding responsibilities like work, childcare, and family obligations. Traditional inpatient treatment programs often require weeks or months away from these duties, making recovery difficult for those with busy lives. Fortunately, there are flexible treatment options, such as the Sublocade in Toronto offered at Centres for Health and Healing, that allow individuals to receive effective care without significant disruptions to their daily lives.

Why Treating Opioid Addiction Quickly is Crucial

Opioid addiction, if left untreated, can quickly spiral out of control, with severe consequences for both physical and mental health. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of overdose, job loss, and relationship breakdowns. Immediate intervention is crucial, but many individuals cannot afford to spend extended periods in residential facilities. This is where Sublocade, available in Toronto through our program, comes in as a life-changing solution.

Symptoms of Opioid Withdrawal

Common symptoms of opioid withdrawal can range from mild to moderate to the end of the spectrum.

Some of these symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Diarrhea
• Sensitivity to light
• Muscle cramps and body aches
• Restlessness

What is Sublocade?

Sublocade is a prescription medication containing buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist that helps manage opioid addiction by binding to mu-receptors in the brain. This process reduces the euphoric “high” associated with opioid use, diminishing cravings and minimizing the risk of relapse. Sublocade’s extended-release formula is administered monthly, allowing patients to maintain their recovery without daily medications or frequent medical visits.

The Sublocade program in Toronto is particularly effective for individuals with moderate to severe opioid use disorder. By providing long-lasting relief from withdrawal symptoms, Sublocade offers stability and helps prevent the dangerous cycles of relapse common in opioid addiction.

How Does Sublocade Work?

Sublocade works by steadily releasing buprenorphine into the bloodstream, which crosses the blood-brain barrier and attaches to opioid receptors. This action reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to focus on their recovery. Sublocade is not a standalone treatment; it is most effective when combined with other therapies, such as counselling, 12-step programs, or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

At Centres for Health and Healing, we integrate Sublocade treatment with a comprehensive addiction recovery plan. By doing so, we address the full spectrum of an individual’s needs, helping them build a sustainable, opioid-free life.

Benefits of Sublocade in Toronto

• Flexible treatment plan: Unlike residential treatment, Sublocade allows patients to maintain their regular routines. Whether you’re working, attending school, or caring for your family, Sublocade fits into your life rather than requiring you to pause it.
• Monthly administration: With just one injection per month, Sublocade eliminates the need for daily dosing, offering convenience and consistency in treatment. This makes it an ideal solution for people who struggle with daily medication adherence.
• Reduces withdrawal symptoms: Sublocade significantly reduces the physical and psychological discomfort of opioid withdrawal, including symptoms like nausea, anxiety, and restlessness. This makes it easier for individuals to focus on recovery rather than battling debilitating withdrawal.
• Lower risk of relapse: By stabilizing cravings and minimizing withdrawal, Sublocade greatly reduces the risk of relapse, which is one of the biggest challenges in opioid recovery.
• Compatible with other therapies: As part of a well-rounded treatment program, Sublocade works in conjunction with therapies such as CBT, residential treatment, or group support meetings, enhancing overall recovery outcomes.

How Does Someone Get a Prescription for Sublocade?

In Canada, getting a prescription for Sublocade involves several steps that prioritize medical oversight and patient safety. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Consultation with a Healthcare Provider

The first step is to consult a healthcare provider, such as a family doctor, psychiatrist, or addiction specialist. This professional will assess your condition, review your medical history, and determine whether Sublocade is the right treatment for you. Typically, this medication is prescribed to individuals who are already receiving treatment for opioid use disorder and are stable on a lower dose of oral buprenorphine.

Stabilization on Buprenorphine

Before Sublocade is prescribed, patients must first stabilize on a daily dose of a sublingual form of buprenorphine, like Suboxone. This stabilization period allows the doctor to assess the patient’s response to the medication and ensure that they can tolerate it.

Prescription from a Qualified Professional

Once stabilized, the doctor may prescribe Sublocade. In Canada, only licensed healthcare professionals who have experience in treating opioid use disorder can prescribe Sublocade. Additionally, since it is a controlled substance, the prescription is carefully monitored.

Administration in a Healthcare Setting

Sublocade is not available for home use and cannot be picked up at a pharmacy. It must be administered by a healthcare provider in a clinical setting, such as a doctor’s office or an outpatient clinic. The injection is given once a month, typically into the abdominal area, where it slowly releases buprenorphine over time.

Follow-up Care

After starting Sublocade, regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the patient’s progress, manage any side effects, and adjust the treatment plan as needed. These appointments also ensure compliance with the treatment and provide an opportunity for additional support in the recovery process.

The Growing Opioid Crisis and the Role of Sublocade in Toronto

The opioid crisis continues to affect thousands of people across Canada. In 2019, over 50,000 opioid-related deaths were recorded in the United States alone, with similar rising trends in Canada. The need for effective, accessible treatments like Sublocade is more urgent than ever.

Sublocade’s success is rooted in its ability to address both the physical and psychological aspects of opioid addiction. It allows people to regain control of their lives without the constant pull of opioid cravings. For those struggling with addiction, Sublocade provides a lifeline, offering a manageable way to recover while continuing with everyday responsibilities.

How is Sublocade Administered?

Sublocade is administered via a once-monthly injection by a licensed healthcare provider trained in addiction treatment. The extended-release nature of the medication ensures that buprenorphine is gradually absorbed into the bloodstream, providing steady relief from cravings and withdrawal throughout the month. This monthly administration is a key benefit of choosing Sublocade in Toronto, as it simplifies the recovery process and allows individuals to focus on rebuilding their lives.

Who is Sublocade For?

Sublocade is effective for individuals struggling with addiction to both natural opiates, such as heroin and morphine, and synthetic opioids, like fentanyl and OxyContin. Many people who develop opioid use disorders start with legitimate prescriptions but gradually become dependent on these powerful drugs. Sublocade offers a solution to help manage this dependency safely and effectively.

Why Choose Centres for Health and Healing?

At Centres for Health and Healing, we offer specialized treatment plans. Our multidisciplinary team approaches addiction recovery holistically, treating the root causes of addiction rather than just the symptoms. We believe in empowering individuals to lead healthy, fulfilling lives, free from the grips of opioid dependency.

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, don’t wait. Learn more about how our Sublocade program in Toronto can support your recovery journey. We are here to help you regain control of your life, with compassionate care and evidence-based treatments.

Experience Healing with Sublocade in Toronto

The Sublocade program offers a flexible, effective, and convenient approach to managing opioid addiction. By reducing cravings, minimizing withdrawal symptoms, and lowering the risk of relapse, Sublocade helps individuals maintain their responsibilities while achieving lasting recovery. For those seeking a powerful tool in their fight against opioid addiction, Sublocade in Toronto may be the answer you’ve been searching for. 

Reach out to us and let’s explore your treatment options today.