Two injectable buprenorphine options.
Brixadi and Sublocade are both extended-release buprenorphine injections used to treat opioid use disorder. Both deliver buprenorphine over time so that patients do not need to take daily medication.
The choice depends on the formulation, dosing schedule, and what is clinically appropriate.
What they have in common
The same underlying medication.
Both use buprenorphine. Both are designed to provide steady medication levels over weeks. Both are used after a patient has been stabilized on buprenorphine.
Neither replaces the need for ongoing clinical care.
Sublocade
A monthly injection.
Sublocade is buprenorphine extended-release delivered as a monthly subcutaneous injection. It forms a solid deposit under the skin that releases buprenorphine gradually.
Sublocade is generally started after a patient has been on sublingual buprenorphine for at least seven days. It is available in two doses: 300 mg and 100 mg.
Brixadi
Weekly or monthly.
Brixadi is available in both weekly and monthly formulations. The weekly option can be useful during early treatment when dose adjustments may still be needed.
It uses a different delivery technology than Sublocade, forming a gel depot at the injection site. Multiple dose strengths are available across both formulations.
Key differences
How they compare.
Dosing schedule: Sublocade is monthly only. Brixadi offers weekly and monthly options.
Dose flexibility: Brixadi's multiple strengths and weekly option allow for more granular adjustments, particularly early in treatment.
Administration: Both are subcutaneous injections given by a healthcare provider. Neither is self-administered.
How the choice is made
It depends on where you are in treatment.
The decision is made between a patient and their physician. Factors include treatment stage, whether weekly dosing would be beneficial during stabilization, provider availability, and coverage.
For most patients, both are clinically appropriate options.
Starting treatment
Both start after oral buprenorphine.
Patients typically begin with sublingual buprenorphine and transition to an injectable formulation once stable. The transition is managed by a physician based on clinical response.
If you are considering starting treatment, the first step is a physician evaluation — not choosing an injection.