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SUBLOCADE

buprenorphine · Solution

Prescription NDA Schedule CIII RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
SUBLOCADE
Generic name
buprenorphine
Dosage form
Solution
Route
Subcutaneous
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
Indivior Inc.
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
CIII
Active ingredients
2
NDC product codes
2
Packages
2
Data completeness
76% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Buprenorphine 100 mg/1 904870 View
Buprenorphine 300 mg/1 904870 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Solution
Route of administration
Subcutaneous
Presentations
4

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Partial Opioid Agonist [EPC] EPC All 19 members
Partial Opioid Agonists [MoA] MoA All 25 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
209819
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
November 30, 2017
Sponsor
INDIVIOR
Products on application
2
Submissions recorded
20
Products approved under application 209819.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
209819-001 SUBLOCADE SOLUTION, EXTENDED RELEASE BUPRENORPHINE Prescription — RLD
209819-002 SUBLOCADE SOLUTION, EXTENDED RELEASE BUPRENORPHINE Prescription — RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
—
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Patents and exclusivity

Source: Orange Book
Patent listings submitted under 21 U.S.C. 355(b)(1) and (c)(2).
Patent Expires Product Substance Use code Submitted
9827241 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2206 December 13, 2017
9827241 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2211 December 13, 2017
9827241 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2181 December 13, 2017
9827241 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2210 December 13, 2017
9782402 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2180 December 13, 2017
9782402 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2176 December 13, 2017
9782402 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2208 December 13, 2017
9272044 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2176 December 13, 2017
9272044 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2209 December 13, 2017
9272044 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2178 December 13, 2017
10198218 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2489 February 15, 2019
9272044 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2177 December 13, 2017
9498432 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2179 December 13, 2017
9782402 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2207 December 13, 2017
9827241 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2174 December 13, 2017
10592168 June 6, 2031 001 No U-2489 March 19, 2020
9827241 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2181 December 13, 2017
9827241 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2206 December 13, 2017
9827241 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2211 December 13, 2017
9782402 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2208 December 13, 2017
9782402 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2207 December 13, 2017
9272044 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2209 December 13, 2017
9272044 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2178 December 13, 2017
9498432 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2179 December 13, 2017
10198218 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2489 February 15, 2019
9272044 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2176 December 13, 2017
9782402 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2180 December 13, 2017
9827241 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2174 December 13, 2017
10592168 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2489 March 19, 2020
9272044 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2177 December 13, 2017
9782402 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2176 December 13, 2017
9827241 June 6, 2031 002 No U-2210 December 13, 2017
10558394 June 25, 2031 001 No February 18, 2020
10558394 June 25, 2031 002 No July 16, 2020
8975270 September 5, 2031 001 No U-2206 December 13, 2017
8975270 September 5, 2031 001 No U-2175 December 13, 2017
8975270 September 5, 2031 002 No U-2206 December 13, 2017
8975270 September 5, 2031 002 No U-2175 December 13, 2017
8921387 January 6, 2032 001 No U-2174 December 13, 2017
8921387 January 6, 2032 001 No U-2173 December 13, 2017
8921387 January 6, 2032 002 No U-2173 December 13, 2017
8921387 January 6, 2032 002 No U-2174 December 13, 2017
11000520 November 6, 2035 001 No U-3111 May 20, 2021
11839611 November 6, 2035 001 No U-3111 January 8, 2024
12622904 November 6, 2035 001 No U-4528 June 5, 2026
11000520 November 6, 2035 002 No U-3111 May 20, 2021
11839611 November 6, 2035 002 No U-3111 January 8, 2024
12622904 November 6, 2035 002 No U-4528 June 5, 2026
10646484 June 22, 2038 002 No U-2489 May 12, 2020
Regulatory exclusivity periods.
Code Expires Product
M-314 February 21, 2028 001
M-314 February 21, 2028 002

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 209819.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 37 Labeling Approved December 22, 2025 Standard
Supplement 34 REMS Approved April 11, 2025 N/A
Supplement 31 Efficacy Approved February 21, 2025 Priority
Supplement 29 REMS Approved April 19, 2024 N/A
Supplement 28 Labeling Approved December 15, 2023 Standard
Supplement 26 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved September 12, 2023 N/A
Supplement 24 REMS Approved July 3, 2023 N/A
Supplement 22 Labeling Approved March 13, 2023 Standard
Supplement 21 REMS Approved January 6, 2023 N/A
Supplement 10 Labeling Approved August 23, 2022 Standard
Supplement 20 Labeling Approved June 17, 2022 Standard
Supplement 19 REMS Approved September 22, 2021 N/A
Supplement 18 Labeling Approved June 17, 2021 Standard
Supplement 15 Labeling Approved May 11, 2021 Standard
Supplement 17 Labeling Approved March 4, 2021 Standard
Supplement 16 REMS Approved June 15, 2020 N/A
Supplement 12 Labeling Approved February 4, 2020 Standard
Supplement 9 Labeling Approved October 7, 2019 Standard
Supplement 1 Labeling Approved March 5, 2018 Standard
Original application 1 Type 3 - New Dosage Form Approved November 30, 2017 Priority

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · January 6, 2026
  • 0 · Supplement · December 29, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · September 30, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · September 30, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · April 21, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · February 24, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · April 22, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · December 19, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · December 18, 2023
  • 0 · Original application · November 3, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · October 3, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · October 3, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · July 5, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · March 14, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · March 14, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · January 9, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · August 25, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · August 24, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · June 21, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · June 21, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · September 28, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · June 23, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · June 23, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · June 23, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · May 12, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · May 12, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · March 5, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · June 17, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · February 28, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · February 5, 2020

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260727). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260727

Boxed Warning

openFDA Drug Labeling

WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS HARM OR DEATH WITH INTRAVENOUS ADMINISTRATION; SUBLOCADE RISK EVALUATION AND MITIGATION STRATEGY Serious harm or death could result if administered intravenously. SUBLOCADE forms a solid mass upon contact with body fluids and may cause occlusion, local tissue damage, and thrombo-embolic events, including life threatening pulmonary emboli, if administered intravenously. ( 5.1 ) Because of the risk of serious harm or death that could result from intravenous self-administration, SUBLOCADE is only available through a restricted program called the SUBLOCADE REMS Program. Healthcare settings and pharmacies that order and dispense SUBLOCADE must be certified in this program and comply with the REMS requirements. ( 5.2 ) WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS HARM OR DEATH WITH INTRAVENOUS ADMINISTRATION; SUBLOCADE RISK EVALUATION AND MITIGATION STRATEGY See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Serious harm or death could result if administered intravenously. ( 5.1 ) SUBLOCADE is only available through a restricted program called the SUBLOCADE REMS Program. Healthcare settings and pharmacies that order and dispense SUBLOCADE must be certified in this program and comply with the REMS requirements. ( 5.2 )

Recent Major Changes

openFDA Drug Labeling

Indications and Usage ( 1 ) 02/2025 Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 , 2.3 , 2.5 ) 02/2025 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12 ) 02/2025

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE SUBLOCADE is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe opioid use disorder in patients who have initiated treatment with a single dose of a transmucosal buprenorphine product or who are already being treated with buprenorphine. SUBLOCADE should be used as part of a complete treatment plan that includes counseling and psychosocial support. SUBLOCADE contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe opioid use disorder in patients who have initiated treatment with a single dose of a transmucosal buprenorphine product or who are already being treated with buprenorphine. ( 1 ) SUBLOCADE should be used as part of a complete treatment program that includes counseling and psychosocial support. ( 1 )

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION SUBLOCADE is for healthcare provider preparation and administration only. ( 2.1 ) SUBLOCADE is administered only by subcutaneous injection in the abdomen, thigh, buttock, or back of the upper arm. ( 2.1 ) Strongly consider prescribing naloxone at the time SUBLOCADE is initiated or renewed because patients being treated for opioid use disorder have the potential for relapse, putting them at risk for opioid overdose. ( 2.2 ) Patients not currently taking buprenorphine should receive an initial dose (e.g. 4 mg) of transmucosal buprenorphine before administering the first injection of SUBLOCADE. Monitor patients in a healthcare setting after injection with SUBLOCADE to assess for symptoms of worsening withdrawal or sedation. Patients' symptoms should be stable or improving prior to release from the healthcare setting. ( 2.3 ) The second injection of SUBLOCADE may be administered as early as one week after the first injection. ( 2.3 ) Injection sites should be rotated between doses. ( 2.3 ) The recommended dose of SUBLOCADE is two initial doses of 300 mg followed by 100 mg monthly maintenance doses. ( 2.3 ) Increasing the maintenance dose to 300 mg monthly may be considered for patients in which the benefits outweigh the risks. ( 2.3 ) Examine the injection site for signs of infection or evidence of tampering or attempts to remove the depot. ( 2.4 ) See Full Prescribing Information for administration instructions. ( 2.5 ) 2.1 Important Dosing and Administration Information FOR SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION ONLY. DO NOT ADMINISTER SUBLOCADE INTRAVENOUSLY, INTRAMUSCULARLY OR INTRADERMALLY [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 , 5.6 )] . SUBLOCADE is for healthcare provider preparation and administration only. SUBLOCADE must be injected into the subcutaneous tissue of the abdomen, thigh, buttock, or back of the upper arm. Patients not currently taking buprenorphine should receive an initial dose (e.g. 4 mg) of transmucosal buprenorphine before administering the first injection of SUBLOCADE. Monitor patients in a healthcare setting after injection with SUBLOCADE to assess for symptoms of worsening withdrawal or sedation. Patients' symptoms should be stable or improving prior to release from the healthcare setting. The second injection of SUBLOCADE may be administered as early as one week after the first injection. Injection sites should be rotated between doses. Administer maintenance injections at least 26 days apart. A patient who misses a maintenance dose should receive the next dose as soon as possible. Administer each injection only using the syringe and safety needle included with the product [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] . 2.2 Patient Access to Naloxone for the Emergency Treatment of Opioid Overdose Discuss the availability of naloxone for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose with the patient and caregiver. Because patients being treated for opioid use disorder have the potential for relapse, putting them at risk for opioid overdose, strongly consider prescribing naloxone for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose, both when initiating and renewing treatment with SUBLOCADE. Also consider prescribing naloxone if the patient has household members (including children) or other close contacts at risk for accidental ingestion or opioid overdose [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . Advise patients and caregivers that naloxone may also be administered for a known or suspected overdose with buprenorphine itself. Higher than normal doses and repeated administration of naloxone may be necessary due to the long duration of action of buprenorphine and its affinity for the mu-opioid receptor [see Overdosage ( 10 )] . Inform patients and caregivers of their options for obtaining naloxone as permitted by individual state naloxone dispensing and prescribing requirements or guidelines (e.g., by prescription, directly from a pharmacist, or as part of a community-based p …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS SUBLOCADE injection is available in dosage strengths of 100 mg/0.5 mL and 300 mg/1.5 mL buprenorphine. Each injection is a sterile, clear, colorless to yellow to amber solution provided in a single-dose, prefilled syringe with a 19 gauge 5/8-inch needle. Injection: 100 mg/0.5 mL and 300 mg/1.5 mL provided in a prefilled, single-dose syringe with a 19 Gauge 5/8-inch needle. ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS SUBLOCADE should not be administered to patients who have been shown to be hypersensitive to buprenorphine or any component of the ATRIGEL ® delivery system [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.11 )] . Hypersensitivity to buprenorphine or any other ingredients in SUBLOCADE. ( 4 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse : Buprenorphine can be abused in a manner similar to other opioids. Monitor patients for conditions indicative of diversion or progression of opioid dependence and addictive behaviors. ( 5.3 ) Respiratory Depression : Life-threatening respiratory depression and death have occurred in association with buprenorphine. Warn patients of the potential danger of self-administration of benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants while under treatment with SUBLOCADE. ( 5.4 , 5.5 ) Risk of Serious Injection Site Reactions : Likelihood may be increased with inadvertent intramuscular or intradermal administration. Evaluate and treat as appropriate. ( 5.6 ). Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome : Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) is an expected and treatable outcome of prolonged use of opioids during pregnancy. ( 5.7 ) Adrenal Insufficiency : If diagnosed, treat with physiologic replacement of corticosteroids, and wean patient off of the opioid. ( 5.8 ) Risk of Opioid Withdrawal With Abrupt Discontinuation : If treatment with SUBLOCADE is discontinued, monitor patients for several months for withdrawal and treat appropriately. ( 5.9 ) Risk of Hepatitis, Hepatic Events : Monitor liver function tests prior to and during treatment. ( 5.10 ) Risk of Withdrawal in Patients Dependent on Full Agonist Opioids : Verify that patients have tolerated transmucosal buprenorphine before injecting SUBLOCADE. ( 5.12 ) Treatment of Emergent Acute Pain : Treat pain with a non-opioid analgesic whenever possible. If opioid therapy is required, monitor patients closely because higher doses may be required for analgesic effect. ( 5.13 ) 5.1 Risk of Serious Harm or Death With Intravenous Administration Intravenous injection presents significant risk of serious harm or death as SUBLOCADE forms a solid mass upon contact with body fluids. Occlusion, local tissue damage, and thrombo-embolic events, including life threatening pulmonary emboli, could result if administered intravenously [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ), Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 )] . Do not administer intravenously, intramuscularly, or intradermally [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] . 5.2 SUBLOCADE Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) Program SUBLOCADE is available only through a restricted program called the SUBLOCADE REMS Program because of the risk of serious harm or death that could result from intravenous self-administration. The goal of the REMS is to mitigate serious harm or death that could result from intravenous self-administration by ensuring that healthcare settings and pharmacies are certified and only dispense SUBLOCADE directly to a healthcare provider for administration by a healthcare provider. Notable requirements of the SUBLOCADE REMS Program include the following: Healthcare Settings and Pharmacies that order and dispense SUBLOCADE must be certified in the SUBLOCADE REMS Program. Certified Healthcare Settings and Pharmacies must establish processes and procedures to verify SUBLOCADE is provided directly to a healthcare provider for administration by a healthcare provider, and the drug is not dispensed to the patient. Certified Healthcare Settings and Pharmacies must not distribute, transfer, loan, or sell SUBLOCADE. Further information is available at www.SublocadeREMS.com or call 1-866-258-3905. 5.3 Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse SUBLOCADE contains buprenorphine, a Schedule III controlled substance that can be abused in a manner similar to other opioids. Buprenorphine is sought by people with opioid use disorder and is subject to criminal diversion. Monitor all patients for progression of opioid use disorder and addictive behaviors [see Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 )] . 5.4 Risk of Life-Threatening Respiratory and Central Nervous System (CNS) Depression Buprenorphine has been associated with life-threatening respiratory depression and death. Many, but not all, postmarketing reports regarding com …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Respiratory and CNS Depression [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Adrenal Insufficiency [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Opioid Withdrawal [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 , 5.12 )] Hepatitis, Hepatic Events [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.11 )] Orthostatic Hypotension [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.18 )] Elevation of Cerebrospinal Fluid Pressure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.19 )] Elevation of Intracholedochal Pressure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.20 )] Adverse reactions commonly associated with SUBLOCADE (in ≥ 5% of subjects) were constipation, headache, nausea, injection site pruritus, vomiting, increased hepatic enzymes, fatigue, and injection site pain. ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Indivior Inc. at 1-877-782-6966 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The safety of SUBLOCADE was evaluated in 848 opioid-dependent subjects (see Table 2 ). In these studies, there was a total of 557 subjects who received at least 6 monthly SC injections of SUBLOCADE and 138 subjects who received 12 monthly SC injections. Adverse events led to premature discontinuation in 4% of the group receiving SUBLOCADE compared with 2% in the placebo group (13-0001, NCT02357901). In the Phase 3 open-label study (13-0003, NCT02510014), adverse events leading to drug dose reductions were reported in 7.3% of subjects receiving SUBLOCADE. Table 2 Total Subjects Exposed to SUBLOCADE *Not included in total subjects exposed to SUBLOCADE † FLEX = 300 mg initial dose with an option to receive either 100 mg or 300 mg for subsequent dosing per clinician's discretion ‡ = Not included in total unique subjects exposed to SUBLOCADE, already accounted for in Study 13-0001 section of table Study 13-0001 (NCT02357901) Up to 6 Injections Study 13-0003 (NCT02510014) Total Subjects Exposed To SUBLOCADE Roll-Over Up to 6 Injections De-Novo Up to 12 Injections SUBLOCADE 300/100 mg SUBLOCADE 300/300 mg Placebo From SUBLOCADE 300/100 mg To SUBLOCADE 300/Flex† From SUBLOCADE 300/300 mg To SUBLOCADE 300/Flex† From Placebo To SUBLOCADE 300/Flex† SUBLOCADE 300/Flex N = 203 N = 201 N = 100* N = 112‡ N = 113‡ N = 32 N = 412 N = 848 Table 3 shows the non-injection site-related adverse reactions (ADRs) for the groups receiving SUBLOCADE 300/300 mg (6 doses of 300 mg SC injections) 300/100 mg (300 mg SC injections for the first two doses followed by 4 doses of 100 mg SC injections) and placebo (volume-matched ATRIGEL ® delivery system subcutaneous injections) reported following administration in the 6 month, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. The systemic safety profile for SUBLOCADE, given by a healthcare provider in clinical trials, was consistent with the known safety profile of transmucosal buprenorphine. Common adverse reactions associated with buprenorphine included constipation, nausea, vomiting, abnormal liver enzymes, headache, sedation and somnolence. Dose dependent hepatic effects observed in the Phase 3, double-blind study (13-0001, NCT02357901) included the incidence of ALT more than 3 times the upper limit of normal (> 3 × ULN) in 12.4%, 5.4%, and 4.0% of the SUBLOCADE 300/300-mg, SUBLOCADE 300/100-mg, and placebo groups, respectively. The incidence of AST > 3 × ULN was 11.4%, 7.9%, and 1.0%, respectively. Adverse drug reactions [by MedDRA Preferred Terms (PT)] reported in at least 2% of subjects rec …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 5 includes clinically significant drug interactions with SUBLOCADE. Table 5 Clinically Significant Drug Interactions Benzodiazepines and Other Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants Clinical Impact: Due to additive pharmacologic effects, the concomitant use of benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol, increases the risk of respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death. Intervention: Cessation of benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants is preferred in most cases of concomitant use. In some cases, monitoring in a higher level of care for taper may be appropriate. In others, gradually tapering a patient off of a prescribed benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant or decreasing to the lowest effective dose may be appropriate. Similarly, cessation of other CNS depressants is preferred when possible. Before co-prescribing benzodiazepines for anxiety or insomnia, ensure that patients are appropriately diagnosed and consider alternative medications and non-pharmacologic treatments [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 , 5.5 )] . If concomitant use is warranted, strongly consider prescribing naloxone for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose, as is recommended for all patients in treatment for opioid use disorder [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]. Examples: Alcohol, benzodiazepines and other sedatives/hypnotics, anxiolytics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics, and other opioids. Inhibitors of CYP3A4 Clinical Impact: The effects of co-administered CYP3A4 inhibitors on buprenorphine exposure in subjects treated with SUBLOCADE have not been studied and the effects may be dependent on the route of administration; however, such interactions have been established in studies using transmucosal buprenorphine. Buprenorphine is metabolized to norbuprenorphine primarily by CYP3A4; therefore, potential interactions may occur when SUBLOCADE is given concurrently with agents that affect CYP3A4 activity. The concomitant use of sublingual buprenorphine and CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) can increase the plasma concentration of buprenorphine, resulting in increased or prolonged opioid effects. Intervention: Patients who transfer to SUBLOCADE treatment from a regimen of transmucosal buprenorphine used concomitantly with CYP3A4 inhibitors [e.g., azole antifungals such as ketoconazole, macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin, and HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, indinavir, and saquinavir)] should be monitored to ensure that the plasma buprenorphine level provided by SUBLOCADE is adequate. If patients already on SUBLOCADE require newly-initiated treatment with CYP3A4 inhibitors, the patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of over-medication. Within 2 weeks of SUBLOCADE administration, if signs and symptoms of buprenorphine toxicity or overdose occur but the concomitant medication cannot be reduced or discontinued, it may be necessary to remove the depot and treat the patient with a formulation of buprenorphine that permits dose adjustments. Conversely, if a patient has been stabilized on SUBLOCADE in the setting of concomitant medication that is a CYP3A4 inhibitor, and the concomitant medication is discontinued, the patient should be monitored for withdrawal. If the dose of SUBLOCADE is not adequate in the absence of the concomitant medication, that patient should be transitioned back to a formulation of buprenorphine that permits dose adjustments. Examples: Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), azole-antifungal agents (e.g., ketoconazole), protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir) CYP3A4 Inducers Clinical Impact: The effects of co-administered CYP3A4 inducers on buprenorphine exposure in subjects treated with SUBLOCADE have not been studied. Buprenorphine is metabolized to norbuprenorphine primarily by CYP3A4; therefore, potential interactions may occur when SUBLOCADE is given concurrently with agents that affect CYP3A4 ac …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Lactation : Buprenorphine passes into the mother's milk. ( 8.2 ) Geriatric Patients : Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. ( 8.5 ) Moderate to Severe Hepatic Impairment : Not recommended. ( 5.15 , 8.6 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary The data on use of buprenorphine, the active ingredient in SUBLOCADE, in pregnancy, are limited; however, these data do not indicate an increased risk of major malformations specifically due to buprenorphine exposure. There are limited data from randomized clinical trials in women maintained on buprenorphine that were not designed appropriately to assess the risk of major malformations [see Human Data ] . Observational studies have reported congenital malformations among buprenorphine‐exposed pregnancies, but were also not designed appropriately to assess the risk of congenital malformations specifically due to buprenorphine exposure [see Human Data ] . In animal reproduction studies with SUBLOCADE, SUBLOCADE administered subcutaneously to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis at a buprenorphine dose equivalent to 38 and 15 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 300 mg caused embryolethality, which appeared to be attributable primarily to the SUBLOCADE vehicle (ATRIGEL ® delivery system). In addition, reduced fetal body weights, increased visceral malformations and skeletal malformations were observed in rats and rabbits at buprenorphine doses equivalent to 38 and 15 times, respectively, the MRHD. These effects were also observed with the ATRIGEL ® delivery system alone, but the skeletal and visceral malformations in rat appear at least partially attributable to buprenorphine [see Animal Data ] . Based on animal data, advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. SUBLOCADE should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and embryo-fetal risk Untreated opioid addiction in pregnancy is associated with adverse obstetrical outcomes such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and fetal death. In addition, untreated opioid addiction often results in continued or relapsing illicit opioid use. Fetal/neonatal adverse reactions Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome may occur in newborn infants of mothers who are receiving treatment with SUBLOCADE. Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome presents as irritability, hyperactivity and abnormal sleep pattern, high pitched cry, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or failure to gain weight. Signs of neonatal withdrawal usually occur in the first days after birth. The duration and severity of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome may vary. Observe newborns for signs of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and manage accordingly [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] . Labor or Delivery Opioid-dependent women on buprenorphine maintenance therapy may require additional analgesia during labor. As with all opioids, use of buprenorphine prior to delivery may result in respiratory depression in the newborn. Closely monitor neonates for signs of respiratory depression. An opioid antagonist such as naloxone should be available for reversal of opioid induced respiratory depression in the neonate. Data Human Data Studies have been conducted to evaluate neonatal outcomes in women exposed to buprenorphine during pregnancy. Limited data on malformations from trials, observational studies, case series, and case reports on buprenorphine use in pregnancy do not indicate an increased risk of major malformations specifically du …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action SUBLOCADE Injection contains buprenorphine. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist at the mu- opioid receptor and an antagonist at the kappa-opioid receptor.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION SUBLOCADE (buprenorphine extended-release) injection is a clear, viscous, colorless to yellow to amber, sterile solution for subcutaneous injection only . It is designed to deliver buprenorphine at a controlled rate over a one month period. The active ingredient in SUBLOCADE is buprenorphine free base, a mu-opioid receptor partial agonist and a kappa-opioid receptor antagonist. Buprenorphine is dissolved in the ATRIGEL ® delivery system at 18% by weight. The ATRIGEL ® delivery system is a biodegradable 50:50 poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) polymer and a biocompatible solvent, N -methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP). SUBLOCADE is provided in dosage strengths of 100 mg and 300 mg. Table 6 presents the delivered amounts of the raw materials and the approximate delivered volume for the two dosage strengths. Table 6 Amounts of Raw Materials and Delivered Volume for the Dosage Strengths Raw Materials in SUBLOCADE 100 mg Dosage 300 mg Dosage Buprenorphine 100 mg 300 mg Poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) 178 mg 533 mg N -methyl-2-pyrrolidone 278 mg 833 mg Approximate Delivered Volume 0.5 mL 1.5 mL The molecular weight of buprenorphine free base is 467.6, and its molecular formula is C 29 H 41 NO 4 . Chemically, buprenorphine is (2S)-2-[17-(Cyclopropylmethyl)-4,5α-epoxy-3-hydroxy-6-methoxy-6α,14-ethano-14α-morphinan-7α-yl]-3,3-dimethylbutan-2-ol. The structural formula is: Structural Formula

10 OVERDOSAGE Clinical Presentation The manifestations of acute buprenorphine overdose include pinpoint pupils, sedation, hypotension, hypoglycemia, respiratory depression, and death. Treatment of Overdose In the event of overdose, the respiratory and cardiac status of the patient should be monitored carefully. When respiratory or cardiac functions are depressed, primary attention should be given to the re-establishment of adequate respiratory exchange through provision of a patent airway and institution of assisted or controlled ventilation. Oxygen, IV fluids, vasopressors, and other supportive measures should be considered as indicated. Naloxone may be of value for the management of buprenorphine overdose. Higher than normal doses and repeated administration may be necessary. Clinicians should consider the potential role and contribution of buprenorphine, other opioids, and other CNS depressant drugs in a patient's clinical presentation. Clinical data are limited with regards to the possible surgical removal of the depot. Two cases of surgical removal were reported in premarketing clinical studies.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING SUBLOCADE injection is available as a sterile, clear, viscous, colorless to yellow to amber solution in a single dose, prefilled syringe with safety needle. SUBLOCADE, 100 mg/0.5 mL – NDC 12496-0100-1 SUBLOCADE, 300 mg/1.5 mL – NDC 12496-0300-1 Storage and Handling Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (35.6°F to 46.4°F). Once outside the refrigerator this product may be stored in its original packaging at room temperature, 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), for up to 12 weeks prior to administration. Discard SUBLOCADE if left at room temperature for longer than 12 weeks. SUBLOCADE is a Schedule III drug product. Handle with adequate security and accountability. After administration, syringes should be properly disposed, per facility procedure for a Schedule III drug product, and per applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Rx Only.

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
124,274
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: BUPRENORPHINE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
12496-0100-1 12496-0100 Indivior Inc. 1 POUCH in 1 CARTON (12496-0100-1) / 1 SYRINGE in 1 POUCH (12496-0100-2) / 1 SOLUTION in 1 SYRINGE (12496-0100-5) February 26, 2018
12496-0300-1 12496-0300 Indivior Inc. 1 POUCH in 1 CARTON (12496-0300-1) / 1 SYRINGE in 1 POUCH (12496-0300-2) / 1 SOLUTION in 1 SYRINGE (12496-0300-5) February 26, 2018
12496-0100 12496-0100 Indivior Inc. — February 26, 2018
12496-0300 12496-0300 Indivior Inc. — February 26, 2018

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts

Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.