Contrave® Weight Loss: 17 Frequently Asked Questions

Contrave® is a prescription medication designed to help with weight loss in compatible individuals struggling with obesity or who have weight-related medical conditions. It combines two drugs, naltrexone and bupropion, which is a newly approved treatment option for chronic weight management in obese adults, targeting areas of the brain that control hunger and cravings.

If you’re considering Contrave® or want to know more about its benefits, effectiveness, and safety, this FAQ will address your most common questions.

Key Takeaways

• Contrave® combines bupropion and naltrexone to help manage hunger and cravings.
• It’s designed for a certain subset of adults who are obese or overweight with weight-related medical issues.
• Contrave® is not a quick fix but part of a broader weight management plan involving diet and exercise.

1. What is Contrave® (naltrexone/bupropion), and how does it work?

Contrave® is a weight loss medication that combines two active ingredients: bupropion, an antidepressant, and naltrexone, a drug used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence. These work together to target the brain’s reward and hunger systems. Bupropion helps reduce appetite, while naltrexone works on cravings, potentially making it easier for individuals to stick to a healthy diet.

Additionally, weight loss achieved with Contrave® may positively influence obesity-related risk factors, improving metabolic and glycemic parameters.

2. Who can use Contrave® for overweight and obese adults?

Contrave® is prescribed for certain subsets of adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (classified as obese) or for those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have additional weight-related conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. It is not intended for individuals looking to lose a small amount of weight or those under 18 years old.

Clinical trials have evaluated the efficacy of Contrave® in overweight and obese patients, particularly focusing on those with type-2 diabetes.

3. How effective is Contrave® for weight loss?

In clinical trials, people using Contrave® alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity lost significantly more weight compared to those who took a placebo.

On average, users lost about 5% to 10% of their body weight over 12 to 16 months. Results vary depending on one’s Weight Loss Drug Type and adherence to the prescribed treatment plan.

4. How long does it take to see results with Contrave®?

Most users begin to notice weight loss within the first 4 to 12 weeks of using Contrave®, especially when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.

The patient is typically reviewed by a healthcare provider after 16 weeks, and if weight loss of at least 5% hasn’t been achieved, treatment may be discontinued.

5. What are the potential side effects of Contrave®?

Common side effects include nausea, headache, constipation, dizziness, and dry mouth. Some individuals also experience insomnia or anxiety. Potentially serious side effects can include increased blood pressure, seizure risk, allergic reactions, and skin rash.

Additionally, Contrave® has been shown to increase the risk of serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which can be life-threatening.

Always discuss potential risks with your doctor before starting Contrave®. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as a skin rash or difficulty breathing.

6. Can Contrave® be used alongside other weight loss medications?

No, Contrave® should not be combined with other weight loss medications unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider. Using multiple weight loss drugs together can increase the risk of side effects and may not be safe.

Always inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking.

7. Is Contrave® addictive?

Contrave® is not considered addictive. While it contains bupropion, which affects neurotransmitters in the brain, and naltrexone, used to treat addiction, there is no evidence suggesting that Contrave® causes dependency.

However, misuse of any prescription medication is discouraged. Misusing Contrave®, especially in combination with narcotic substances, can lead to serious injury.

8. How do I take Contrave®?

Contrave® is taken orally, starting with a lower dose that gradually increases. The typical dosing schedule is one tablet in the morning for the first week, increasing to two tablets in the morning and evening by the fourth week.

It should be taken with food, but not high-fat meals, as this can increase the risk of seizures.

9. Benefits of Contrave®

Contrave® offers several potential benefits for overweight and obese adults aiming to lose weight. One of the most significant advantages is its ability to help patients achieve substantial weight loss, with some studies showing a reduction of up to 10% of their body weight. This weight loss can lead to improved blood pressure, which is crucial for reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

By helping patients achieve and maintain a healthier body weight, Contrave® may also reduce the risk of various obesity-related health problems, making it a promising tool in chronic weight management.

10. Dosage and Administration

The recommended dosage of Contrave® starts with one tablet taken by mouth in the morning for the first week. This initial dose is then gradually increased to two tablets taken twice a day by the fourth week.

For optimal weight loss results, it is essential to combine Contrave® with a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise. This combination helps maximize the medication’s effectiveness in weight loss for certain users.

11. What if I Miss a Dose?

If you happen to miss a dose of Contrave®, simply skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not take an additional dose to make up for the missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

If you are ever unsure about what to do if you miss a dose, it’s best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

12. Why Might Contrave® Not Work for Me?

Contrave® may not be effective for everyone, and several factors could influence its efficacy. One key factor is your body mass index (BMI); Contrave® is approved for use in patients with a BMI of 30 or higher or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have at least one weight-related comorbid condition. Additionally, your medical history plays a significant role.

Patients with a history of seizure disorders, eating disorders, or substance abuse may not be suitable candidates for Contrave®. Furthermore, certain medications, such as MAO inhibitors, can interact with Contrave®, making it less effective or unsafe.

Be sure to discuss your entire medical history and current medications with your healthcare provider to assess whether Contrave® is appropriate for you. For best results, it’s essential that you learn your Weight Loss Drug Type (quiz here) before starting any weight loss medication.

13. Do I Need to Follow a Certain Diet While Taking Contrave®?

Yes, following a healthy, balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise are crucial while taking Contrave® to achieve optimal weight loss results. It is also important to avoid high-fat meals, as they can increase the risk of seizures and serious skin reactions.

For patients with diabetes, monitoring blood sugar levels closely is essential, as Contrave® can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Adhering to these dietary guidelines will help you maximize the benefits of Contrave® and support your overall weight loss journey.

14. Does insurance cover Contrave®?

Coverage for Contrave® varies depending on the health insurance plan. Some plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others may not cover weight loss medications at all.

It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to see if Contrave® is covered and if prior authorization is required.

15. Can I drink alcohol while taking Contrave®?

It is generally advised to limit or avoid alcohol while taking Contrave®.

Since naltrexone is one of its active ingredients and is used to treat alcohol dependence, combining alcohol with Contrave® may reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.

16. Is Contrave® safe for people with mental health conditions?

Contrave® contains bupropion, an antidepressant, so individuals with mental health conditions, particularly depression or anxiety, should use the drug with caution. It may not be suitable for people with a history of eating disorders or suicidal thoughts.

Always consult with a healthcare provider to assess the risks.

17. Can Contrave® be used for chronic weight management?

Contrave® is intended for long-term use, provided it continues to help with weight loss and does not cause adverse effects.

Many users take the drug for several months or even years to maintain weight loss, but regular check-ins with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor progress and side effects.

Conclusion

Contrave® may be an effective tool in helping achieve and maintain weight loss, particularly when combined with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. It’s important to know your Weight Loss Drug Type (quiz here) and consult with a healthcare provider to determine if it’s the right solution based on your health history and weight loss goals. Contrave® is not a standalone solution but part of a broader plan to promote healthier living.

References

https://contrave.com/

https://contravehcp.com/efficacy/cor-diabetes-study/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-contrave#What-is-Contrave

https://www.curraxpharma.com/PI/Contrave-label-current.pdf/#page=40

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-contrave#fa-qs