Can I Take CBD with Contrave? Drug Interactions & Risks

Many people exploring weight loss treatments often ask, “Can I take CBD with Contrave?” CBD is widely used for its potential benefits in managing chronic pain, mental health conditions, and other health concerns, leading many to wonder how it interacts with prescription medications like Contrave.

However, taking Contrave with CBD raises concerns about possible interactions, increased risk of side effects, and the impact on drug metabolism.

This article explores Contrave interactions with CBD, potential risks, and precautions. If you are considering using CBD while taking Contrave, it is essential to talk with your doctor to prevent adverse effects and ensure safe use.

Key Takeaways

• CBD and Contrave may interact by affecting metabolism and increasing the risk of side effects, such as the risk of seizures and changes in blood pressure.
• Taking Contrave with other substances such as CBD, alcohol, and other medications may require dosage adjustments or increased monitoring.
• Always talk with your doctor before using CBD while taking Contrave to avoid possible interactions and adverse effects.

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. The scientific name for CBD is cannabidiol, and it is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis.

Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in marijuana, CBD does not produce a “high.”

Uses of CBD

CBD has gained widespread popularity due to its potential therapeutic benefits.

People use CBD for various conditions, including:

• Chronic pain relief
• Neuropathic pain management
• Mental health conditions such as anxiety and mood disorders
• Epilepsy treatment (FDA-approved CBD drug, Epidiolex)
• Inflammation and autoimmune disorders

Mechanism Behind CBD’s Therapeutic Uses

CBD engages with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a sophisticated cell-signaling network that oversees critical functions such as pain perception, mood, immune response, and inflammation.

The ECS consists of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), endocannabinoids, and enzymes that break down these compounds.

• CB1 receptors, primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, influence functions like mood, memory, and pain perception. Unlike THC, which directly binds to CB1 receptors to produce psychoactive effects, CBD works indirectly by modulating their activity.
• CB2 receptors, mainly located in the immune system, help regulate inflammation and immune responses. CBD is believed to interact more with CB2 receptors, contributing to its anti-inflammatory properties.
• CBD also influences serotonin receptors (5-HT1A), which are involved in mood regulation. This is why CBD is often used to help manage anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders.
• Additionally, CBD reduces oxidative stress and modulates neurotransmitter activity, which may contribute to its neuroprotective effects seen in epilepsy and neurodegenerative conditions.

Popular CBD Products

The demand for CBD products has surged, leading to a variety of formulations tailored to different preferences and needs.

Some of the most popular CBD products include:

• CBD Gummies – A convenient and tasty way to consume CBD, these chewable edibles come in various flavors and doses.
• CBD Oils & Tinctures – Often taken sublingually (under the tongue) for quick absorption, these provide flexible dosing options.
• CBD Capsules & Softgels – Ideal for those looking for a pre-measured, consistent daily dose.
• CBD Topicals – Creams, balms, and lotions infused with CBD, commonly used for localized pain relief or skin conditions.
• CBD Vape Products – Inhalable CBD formulations designed for fast-acting effects, though their long-term safety remains debated.
• CBD-infused Beverages – These include CBD teas, sparkling waters, and coffee for those who want a more refreshing way to consume cannabidiol.

With its diverse product range and potential therapeutic applications, CBD continues to gain traction among individuals looking for natural alternatives to conventional treatments.

However, it’s always important to talk with your doctor before incorporating CBD into your routine, especially if you are taking other medications, such as Contrave.

CBD and Contrave: Key Interactions and Risks

Category	Details
CBD and Contrave Interaction	CBD affects the CYP450 enzyme system, which metabolizes Contrave’s ingredients, potentially increasing the risk of side effects.
Possible Side Effects	Seizures, mood changes, dizziness, nausea, blood pressure fluctuations.
Contrave Uses	Prescription weight loss medication for obesity or overweight individuals with health conditions like Type 2 diabetes or hypertension.
CBD Uses	Commonly used for pain relief, anxiety, epilepsy, and inflammation.
How Contrave Works	Combines bupropion hydrochloride (reduces cravings) and naltrexone hydrochloride (curbs appetite and food-related pleasure).
How CBD Works	Interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system to influence pain, mood, and inflammation.
Major Risks of Taking CBD with Contrave	Increased seizure risk, altered drug metabolism, mood instability, cardiovascular effects.
Drug Interactions with Contrave	Opioids, MAOIs, tricyclic antidepressants, corticosteroids, and serotonin-affecting drugs.
Drug Interactions with CBD	Blood thinners, antidepressants, seizure medications, immunosuppressants, heart medications.
Alcohol & Contrave/CBD	Increases risk of seizures, worsens mood disorders, affects blood pressure.
Who Should Avoid Taking Contrave and CBD Together?	Those with a history of seizures, mental health disorders, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or on multiple medications.
Precautions Before Taking CBD with Contrave	Consult a doctor for medical evaluation, potential dosage adjustments, and monitoring for adverse effects.
When to Seek Emergency Help	Seizures, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, severe allergic reactions, irregular heartbeats, extreme nausea/vomiting.

What Is Contrave?

Contrave is a prescription medication designed to assist with chronic weight management in certain adults who are either obese or overweight and have at least one weight-related health condition.

The drug combines two active ingredients: naltrexone hydrochloride and bupropion hydrochloride, each of which plays a distinct role in weight loss.

Contrave is intended to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to improve weight loss outcomes. It is specifically approved for individuals with:

• A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater (classified as obesity)
• A BMI of 27 or greater (classified as overweight) with at least one weight-related medical condition, such as:
  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Dyslipidemia (high cholesterol or abnormal lipid levels)

While Contrave has been shown to aid in weight loss in a subset of individuals, it is not approved for short-term use or for individuals looking to lose weight for cosmetic reasons.

It is prescribed as part of a long-term weight management plan to help individuals reduce their weight and lower the risk of obesity-related complications.

How Contrave Works

The two active ingredients in Contrave—bupropion hydrochloride and naltrexone hydrochloride—work together to alter brain chemistry, impacting appetite, cravings, and eating behavior.

• Bupropion hydrochloride:
  • A dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) commonly used to treat depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
  • Helps reduce food cravings by affecting the brain’s reward system, which is associated with emotional eating and binge eating
  • Often prescribed separately as an aid for smoking cessation (Zyban) and is sometimes used in bipolar disorder treatment
  • May contribute to mild appetite suppression, helping individuals control their eating habits
• Naltrexone hydrochloride:
  • An opioid antagonist typically used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence
  • Works by blocking opioid receptors, which can reduce food-related pleasure and help curb cravings
  • Helps regulate appetite and impulse control by acting on the brain’s hypothalamus, which plays a key role in hunger and satiety

By combining these two ingredients, Contrave targets both the physical and psychological aspects of weight loss—reducing cravings, suppressing appetite, and altering how the brain perceives food rewards.

Important Warnings and Side Effects

Contrave comes with a boxed warning (also called a black box warning), which is the strongest warning required by the FDA.

This warning highlights the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in individuals taking bupropion hydrochloride, particularly those with a history of mental health disorders.

Other Potential Risks and Side Effects

In addition to the boxed warning, Contrave has several other risks and potential side effects, including:

Increased blood pressure and heart rate

• Contrave can elevate blood pressure and heart rate, making it unsuitable for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension or cardiovascular conditions.

• • Blood pressure should be monitored regularly, especially when starting the medication.

Risk of seizures

• Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of seizures, particularly in individuals with a history of epilepsy, head trauma, eating disorders (anorexia or bulimia), or excessive alcohol use.
• Contrave should not be taken by individuals at high risk for seizures.

Common side effects

Common Contrave side effects include:

• Nausea (most frequently reported side effect)
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Insomnia

Mental health and psychiatric risks

• Mood changes, anxiety, agitation, or worsening depression
• Increased risk of suicidal thoughts, particularly in younger adults
• Symptoms of bipolar disorder may worsen in individuals with an undiagnosed condition
• Drug interactions

There are many Contrave drug interactions. For instance, Contrave should not be taken with:

 

• Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline)
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (e.g., phenelzine, selegiline)
• Systemic corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone)
• Opioid agonists (e.g., oxycodone, morphine, fentanyl) – as naltrexone blocks opioid receptors, taking opioids while on Contrave could cause opioid withdrawal symptoms or reduce opioid effectiveness.

Tylenol and Contrave drug interactions can also occur.

Because of the potential risks, Contrave requires careful medical supervision, especially for individuals with:

• A history of mental health conditions (such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder)
• A history of seizures or neurological conditions
• A history of substance abuse
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure

Individuals taking Contrave should not abruptly stop drinking alcohol or discontinue opioid pain medications without consulting their doctor, as doing so could increase seizure risk or cause withdrawal symptoms.

Drug Interactions Between CBD and Contrave

How CBD May Interact with Contrave

CBD affects the body’s cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzyme system, which plays a role in metabolizing bupropion hydrochloride and naltrexone hydrochloride.

This interaction can increase the risk of Contrave side effects or reduce its effectiveness.

Possible interactions include:

• Increased risk of seizures: Both CBD and bupropion hydrochloride lower the seizure threshold, raising the risk of seizures.
• Changes in blood pressure: CBD can lower blood pressure, while Contrave may cause high blood pressure, leading to fluctuations.
• Altered drug metabolism: CBD may slow down the breakdown of active drugs, leading to increased blood levels of Contrave’s components.
• Mood changes: The interaction may contribute to mental health changes, including anxiety or depression.

Risk Factors to Consider

Before taking CBD with Contrave, consider the following health history factors:

• Medical conditions such as high blood pressure, bipolar disorder, or epilepsy
• Other mental health conditions requiring medication
• Other drugs or certain medications that interact with Contrave
• Systemic exposure to high levels of Contrave due to slowed metabolism
• Increased risk of adverse effects due to multiple drug interactions

Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Contrave and CBD?

Drinking alcohol while taking Contrave and CBD can lead to adverse effects, including:

• Increased risk of seizures
• Worsened mood disorders and psychiatric disorders
• Dangerous fluctuations in blood pressure
• Stronger drug effects leading to dizziness or drowsiness
• Risk of side effects such as nausea and vomiting

Talk with your doctor before consuming alcohol if you are taking Contrave and using CBD.

Other Drug Interactions with Contrave and CBD

Certain Drug Interactions to Watch For

Besides CBD, other interactions can occur with taking Contrave, including:

• Tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors may cause life-threatening reactions.
• Other medications that affect serotonin levels can lead to serotonin syndrome.
• Over-the-counter supplements and herbs can have possible interactions with Contrave.
• Systemic corticosteroids and other drugs that affect immune function.

Precautions and What to Do Next

If you are considering taking CBD while using Contrave, you must take proper precautions to minimize risks and ensure your safety.

Since both substances can influence brain chemistry, metabolism, and cardiovascular function, a healthcare provider can help you make an informed decision based on your medical history, current medications, and overall health status.

Discussing your situation with a doctor or pharmacist can help you take proactive steps to prevent serious side effects, adjust dosages if necessary, and monitor for potential interactions.

If you experience adverse reactions, changes in mood, or symptoms of a serious interaction, it’s important to take action immediately.

Talk With Your Doctor Before Taking CBD with Contrave

Because CBD and Contrave may interact, it is crucial to consult with a doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before using them together.

Your doctor can assess your individual health needs, evaluate potential risks, and adjust your medication regimen as needed.

Your Doctor or Pharmacist Can Help With:

1. Preventing Drug Interactions
   • A healthcare provider can review your medication list to check for possible conflicts between CBD, Contrave, and other drugs you may be taking.
   • This is especially important if you are on antidepressants, seizure medications, blood pressure drugs, or immunosuppressants, as these medications have a higher likelihood of interacting with CBD.
2. Adjusting Dosage Based on Lab Tests and Health Needs
   • If you and your doctor determine that taking CBD and Contrave together is necessary, they may suggest adjusting your Contrave dosage to lower the risk of side effects.
   • Blood tests or metabolic assessments may be recommended to monitor how the body processes both substances and ensure safe drug levels are maintained.
3. Evaluating Health Factors Such as Mental Health Conditions or Bipolar Disorder
   • Since Contrave and CBD both influence neurotransmitter activity, they may worsen mood disorders or cause mood instability in individuals with conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety.
   • Your doctor may suggest alternative treatments or recommend regular monitoring for signs of worsening mental health symptoms.
4. Monitoring for Cardiovascular Risks
   • Contrave can raise blood pressure, while CBD can lower it, potentially causing unpredictable fluctuations that may lead to dizziness, fainting, or heart palpitations.
   • A healthcare provider can assess your cardiovascular history, recommend regular blood pressure monitoring, and adjust treatment as needed.

By working with your doctor, you can determine whether combining CBD with Contrave is safe and develop a personalized approach that minimizes risks while maximizing the benefits of your weight management plan.

When to Seek Emergency Help

If you experience serious or life-threatening symptoms while taking CBD and Contrave, seek immediate medical attention by contacting your local emergency services.

Some interactions can escalate quickly and require urgent intervention.

Signs You Should Seek Emergency Medical Help:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), including:
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of the face, throat, or tongue
  • Hives or rash spreading rapidly
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
• Suicidal thoughts or severe mood changes, including:
  • Increased depression, anxiety, agitation, or paranoia
  • Suicidal ideation (thoughts of self-harm or suicide)
  • Hallucinations or delusions
  • Severe mood swings, panic attacks, or aggression
• Seizures or neurological disturbances, including:
  • Uncontrollable shaking or convulsions
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Sudden confusion, disorientation, or inability to speak
• Dangerous cardiovascular symptoms, including:
  • Severe chest pain or irregular heartbeats
  • Extreme fluctuations in blood pressure (severe hypertension or sudden drop in blood pressure)
  • Fainting, dizziness, or loss of balance
• Severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including:
  • Uncontrollable vomiting or diarrhea leading to dehydration
  • Persistent nausea with abdominal pain
  • Blood in vomit or stool

If you or someone you know is experiencing severe mental distress, seizures, or cardiovascular issues after taking CBD and Contrave, do not wait—call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

With all that said, is Contrave right for you? Well, the answer depends on Contrave side effects and safety considerations for weight loss, especially when combined with CBD. You’ll also need to know how long Contrave stays in your system if you’re thinking about switching medications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Contrave, CBD, and Drug Interactions

Understanding potential drug interactions and best practices is essential for ensuring safety and effectiveness when taking Contrave or CBD.

Below are some of the most common questions regarding Contrave, CBD, and prescription medications.

1. What should you not take with Contrave?

Contrave should not be taken with opioids, MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors), and certain antidepressants, as they can cause serious interactions.

Opioid medications, such as oxycodone or morphine, should be avoided because Contrave contains naltrexone, which blocks opioid receptors and may cause withdrawal symptoms. MAOIs, including phenelzine and selegiline, can increase the risk of severe high blood pressure and nervous system overstimulation.

Additionally, medications that lower the seizure threshold, such as antipsychotics, steroids, and other bupropion-containing drugs, should be avoided due to an increased risk of seizures. Always consult your doctor before adding new medications or supplements.

2. Does CBD interact with bupropion?

Yes, CBD can interact with bupropion, one of Contrave’s active ingredients. Both CBD and bupropion are metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system (CYP450) in the liver, meaning CBD can slow the breakdown of bupropion. This leads to higher drug levels in the bloodstream, which may increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and anxiety.

Additionally, since bupropion lowers the seizure threshold, combining it with CBD—which may also influence seizure risk—could further increase this danger. Individuals with a history of seizures or neurological conditions should avoid combining these substances without medical supervision.

3. Which medications should not be taken with CBD?

CBD has potential interactions with various medications, primarily those that are processed through the CYP450 enzyme system in the liver. These include blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), antiepileptic drugs (e.g., valproate, lamotrigine), and immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus).

Taking CBD with these medications may increase or decrease their effects, leading to toxicity or reduced efficacy. Additionally, CNS depressants (such as benzodiazepines or opioids) may enhance CBD’s sedative effects, causing excessive drowsiness.

It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider before using CBD alongside prescription medications.

4. How can I make my Contrave work better?

To maximize Contrave’s effectiveness, it’s important to follow a comprehensive weight management plan that includes a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and consistent medication adherence.

Eating a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, fiber, and healthy fats can help manage appetite and cravings. Regular exercise—such as aerobic activity and strength training—enhances weight loss results and helps maintain long-term success. It’s also essential to take Contrave as prescribed and avoid alcohol and opioid medications that could interfere with its effectiveness.

Lastly, tracking food intake and weight loss progress can help maintain motivation and make necessary adjustments for better results.

5. Can I take CBD with Contrave?

Taking CBD with Contrave is not generally recommended without consulting a doctor due to potential drug interactions. CBD can slow down the metabolism of bupropion and naltrexone, leading to stronger effects and increased side effects, such as dizziness, nausea, mood changes, and a higher risk of seizures.

Additionally, CBD’s potential to lower blood pressure may counteract Contrave’s effects on heart rate and blood pressure regulation, leading to unpredictable fluctuations.

If you are considering using CBD for pain relief, anxiety, or other conditions, speak with a healthcare provider to determine the safest approach while taking Contrave.

6. What prescription drugs should not be taken with CBD?

CBD should not be taken with medications that rely on the CYP450 enzyme system for metabolism, as CBD may slow their breakdown, leading to increased drug levels and side effects.

These include:

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, clopidogrel) – Increased risk of excessive bleeding
• Antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, amitriptyline, sertraline) – Heightened risk of mood changes, drowsiness, or serotonin syndrome
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus) – Possible reduced immune response or toxicity
• Seizure medications (e.g., valproate, clobazam, phenytoin) – Altered effectiveness, leading to increased seizure risk
• Heart medications (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers) – Unpredictable effects on heart rate and blood pressure

If you are on prescription medications, always check with your doctor or pharmacist before using CBD to avoid dangerous interactions.

Final Thoughts

CBD and Contrave have possible interactions that can increase the risk of adverse reactions and impact the effectiveness of Contrave treatment.

Since taking Contrave comes with important safety considerations, it is essential to talk with your doctor before adding CBD or other drugs to your routine.