Key dates:

• Stock will remain available and final orders will be accepted until 11 December 2026 to support patient care.
• PBS claims for Sublocade may be made until 31 December 2026, subject to applicable PBS requirements.

To support continuity of care, new patients should not commence Sublocade® treatment unless there is a documented plan in place, agreed between the patient and their prescriber, to transition to an available alternative opioid dependence treatment (ODT) medicine before Sublocade® supply ceases.

Sublocade® exposure may continue for weeks or months after the last injection and influence the timing and clinical experience of transition.

The discontinuation of Sublocade® may be distressing for some consumers. Healthcare providers are encouraged to support patients through the transition by providing clear clinical information, addressing concerns and offering opportunities to ask questions.

Any transition to an alternative ODT should be tailored to the individual's clinical history, previous treatment response, patient preference and access and safety considerations with flexibility to adjust treatment plans if circumstances or preferences change. It is recommended prescribers begin transition early, to allow time to adjust treatment options as needed.

Patients who stop ODT treatment, return to opioid use after treatment or find the transition period difficult may be at increased risk of overdose from reduced opioid tolerance. All patients should be strongly encouraged to access take-home naloxone for themselves and people in their social community.

The Victorian Department of Health has released guidance to support healthcare providers to plan safe, timely and individualised treatment transitions for people currently receiving Sublocade®.