Extended-release buprenorphine injections now available in Maine

At Better Life Partners, we strive to offer flexible options for those on their path toward recovery. We’re thrilled to announce that we now offer extended-release buprenorphine as part of our treatment program for opioid use disorder (OUD).

More than 600 Mainers died of an overdose last year. Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are highly successful in preventing overdose deaths, but people face a number of hurdles in accessing this life-saving treatment. Whether it’s financial barriers or limited prescribers in an outpatient setting, it can be challenging for Maine residents to find options that meet their diverse needs.

Better Life Partners is now one of only a few treatment programs offering outpatient access to extended-release buprenorphine across Maine—regardless of our members’ ability to pay.

What is extended-release buprenorphine?

Extended-release buprenorphine is a medication administered by injection to treat OUD. We offer two different types of this medication, Sublocade and Brixadi. Our medical team will work with each member to determine if injectable buprenorphine is right for them.

Medications such as buprenorphine are proven to save lives and reduce overdoses through an approach known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Quitting long-time opioid use causes withdrawal. Some people describe feeling like they have to continue to use opioids in order to not feel sick or exhausted. Medications like buprenorphine help prevent withdrawal symptoms. These medications normalize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, regulate normal body function, and help people focus on the recovery process.

What are the benefits of injectable buprenorphine?

Unlike sublingual (under-the-tongue) forms of buprenorphine, injectable buprenorphine provides a longer-lasting effect, which means it doesn’t need to be taken daily. Depending on the formulation, injections may be administered weekly or monthly. Some members may find less frequent dosing to be more convenient for them. Injectable buprenorphine continuously releases medicine all month at a steady rate, keeping buprenorphine levels stable, and supporting long-term recovery.

Medication-assisted treatment at Better Life Partners

We combine FDA-approved medications with supportive counseling and peer coaching to help address the root causes of addiction. For our members, that may look like supportive group counseling with people who understand their experiences.

As part of our treatment program, we also work with members to make sure they get the care that can help them in their recovery, including physical and mental health care.

Harm reduction is a core tenet of our treatment philosophy. That means that we welcome all members, no matter what recovery looks like for them.

Meeting people where they are through community partnerships

We’re proud to partner with community-based organizations to offer our members in-person care, as well as virtual options to best meet their needs. From recovery centers and food banks to treatment providers and corrections departments, our deep partnerships help us reduce barriers to access and help people continue to recover within their own community.

Want to learn more about partnering with us? Send us a note.

If you or someone in your care wants to learn more about our treatment programs for opioid and alcohol use disorder, call (866) 679-0831 to get started.