New Guidance Released for Patients Switching from Sublocade
27 Aug 2026
The guidance was developed with input from GPs, prescribers and clinical pharmacologists. It provides advice on supporting patients who currently receive Sublocade, a long-acting buprenorphine injection used to treat opioid dependence.
The US-based pharmaceutical company Indivior has announced that Sublocade will be withdrawn from the Australian market by the end of 2026.
Dr Hester Wilson, Chair of RACGP Specific Interests Addiction Medicine, has encouraged GPs to begin planning for the change early.
She said moving patients to another treatment may take time and stressed the importance of reassuring patients that their treatment can continue with other options.
Final orders for Sublocade will be accepted until 11 December 2026, while the final day for PBS claims is 31 December 2026.
Another long-acting buprenorphine injection, Buvidal, will remain available through the PBS. However, some patients have previously said they prefer Sublocade.
The NSW Health guidance outlines four main treatment options:
- Switching to Buvidal
- Moving to sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) or buprenorphine (Subutex)
- Changing to methadone through sublingual buprenorphine
- Completing Sublocade treatment and stopping opioid dependence treatment
Dr Wilson advised health professionals to carefully consider the risks of stopping treatment, as withdrawal symptoms could increase the risk of patients returning to illicit opioids.
She also highlighted the importance of regular follow-up and clear communication between patients, health professionals, pharmacists and, where appropriate, family members or carers.
The guidance is currently available from NSW Health
New Guidance Released for Patients Switching from Sublocade
Source: NSW Health