How long does Sublocade stay in your system?
This guide explains the timeline, factors that affect duration, and what to expect.
What Is Sublocade?
Sublocade is an extended-release injection given under the skin once a month.
It delivers a steady dose of buprenorphine for 30 days, preventing highs, crashes, and urges to use opioids.
How Long Does Sublocade Stay In Your System?
Short Answer:
Sublocade can stay in your system for 5 to 12 months, depending on dosage and individual factors.
Although you receive it monthly, the medication stays in the body much longer because it releases slowly from the injection site.
Breakdown of Sublocade Duration in the Body
1. In Blood
Detectable for months, often 2–5 months after last injection.
2. In Urine
Can be detected for up to 6–12 months, depending on metabolism and dosage.
3. In Hair
May show up for up to a year or more, as hair tests track long-term drug exposure.
Why Does Sublocade Last So Long?
Sublocade forms a gel-like depot under the skin.
This “depot” slowly releases buprenorphine over time, which:
Controls cravings
Prevents withdrawal
Provides steady treatment
Stays in the system long after the last dose
Factors That Affect How Long Sublocade Stays in Your System
Everyone’s body processes medications differently. These factors play a role:
1. Dosage
Higher doses (300 mg) last longer than lower doses (100 mg).
2. Metabolism
Slow metabolism = drug stays longer
Fast metabolism = drug clears faster
3. Body Fat
Buprenorphine binds to fat, staying longer in people with higher body fat percentages.
4. Frequency of Injections
Multiple monthly doses build up in the system over time.
Does Sublocade Show Up on a Drug Test?
Standard drug tests do NOT detect Sublocade.
They detect opioids, not buprenorphine.
However:
Specialized tests can detect buprenorphine for months.
Court, probation, and medical tests may use these advanced screenings.
Is It Safe That Sublocade Stays So Long?
Yes.
Sublocade is designed for long-acting, slow release.
This helps people stay stable and prevents relapse.
When Does Sublocade Completely Leave Your Body?
For many individuals, Sublocade is fully eliminated in:
➡️ 10 to 12 months after the last dose
But some people may clear it slightly earlier or later depending on metabolism and health.
Final Thoughts
Sublocade stays in your system for several months—even up to a year—because it is designed to provide long-term, stable treatment for opioid addiction.
