Contrave®: Comprehensive Guide to Weight Loss

What Is Contrave®?

Contrave® is a medication that can help some adults manage their weight. It is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for people who are either obese or who are overweight with other health problems linked to extra weight (like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure). It combines two drugs, bupropion and naltrexone. Each of these drugs works on different parts of the brain that control hunger and cravings.

People who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are considered obese. Contrave® may be prescribed for them. It can also be prescribed for adults with a BMI of 27 or higher, as long as they have at least one weight-related issue like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Key Ingredients in Contrave®

Bupropion

What it is: Bupropion is a drug often used to treat depression (known by brand names like Wellbutrin®) or to help people quit smoking (Zyban®). It works on certain chemicals in your brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are connected to mood, motivation, and how you feel pleasure.

How it helps with weight: In some people, bupropion may reduce their urge to eat by changing how the brain responds to rewards. This can help limit cravings, making it easier to stick to a diet plan or healthier eating habits.

Naltrexone

What it is: Naltrexone is most often used to help people stop or reduce opioid or alcohol use. It works by blocking the receptors in the brain that opioids bind to, lowering the reward effects of those substances.

How it helps with weight: Naltrexone also reduces cravings, but in a slightly different way. By blocking certain reward pathways, naltrexone can help make foods that are high in sugar or fat less tempting. When you combine naltrexone with bupropion, the overall effect on appetite and cravings can be stronger than using either drug alone.

How Contrave® Works in the Body

Contrave® blends bupropion and naltrexone to work on parts of your brain that control hunger (the hypothalamus) and on the reward system (the mesolimbic system). Together, they can help some people feel less hungry and lower their urge to eat. However, Contrave® is most effective when used along with a healthier diet and regular exercise. It’s not meant to replace these vital lifestyle changes, but rather to help you stick to them.

Clinical Evidence and FDA Approval

Contrave® went through several studies, sometimes called the COR (Contrave Obesity Research) trials, before the FDA approved it in 2014. These studies found that many people who took Contrave®, along with diet and exercise, lost more weight than people who took a placebo (a “fake” pill) with the same diet and exercise plan.

Beyond weight loss, researchers also checked if Contrave® helped with waist size, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure. Some people showed improvements, but not everyone responded in the same way. In other words, it can be a helpful option for many, but results vary.

Who Might Benefit from Contrave®?

Contrave® is intended for adults who are either:

• Obese (BMI of 30 or higher), or
• Overweight (BMI of 27 or higher) with at least one other weight-related health issue, such as:
  • High blood pressure
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Sleep apnea

However, it’s not for everyone. A doctor will look at your overall health, your current medications, and any problems like high blood pressure or seizure disorders before prescribing Contrave®. If it is right for you, it will be part of a bigger plan that also includes diet changes and exercise.

Important Contraindications

You should not take Contrave® if you:

• Have high blood pressure that is not under control
• Have or had seizures (because bupropion can raise the risk of seizures)
• Have or had an eating disorder like bulimia or anorexia
• Use opioid medicines (because naltrexone blocks opioid receptors)
• Have taken an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) drug in the past 14 days

Possible Benefits of Contrave®

When combined with healthy eating habits and exercise, Contrave® can offer several potential benefits. Keep in mind that not everyone will see the same results, but here are some things people often report:

1. Reduced Cravings

Many people find cravings—especially for sweet or fatty foods—one of the hardest parts of losing weight. Contrave® can lower these urges, making it easier to stick to your plan.

2. Appetite Suppression

If you’ve ever tried to eat less, you know how hard it can be to feel satisfied. Contrave® may help by making you feel less hungry, so you can manage your portions and resist snacking.

3. Improvements in Metabolic Health

Losing weight can sometimes help improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. While Contrave® itself isn’t a direct treatment for these issues, the weight loss it supports can have positive effects on these markers.

4. Mental Boost

Some people feel more confident and in control when they have help from a medication. Weight loss can be tough, and having that extra support can ease some of the stress and frustration.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

All medications can cause side effects, and Contrave® is no exception. Some are mild, while others can be more serious. Always share any new symptoms with your doctor.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: Often goes away after your body adjusts
• Headache: Can happen as your body responds to changes in brain chemicals
• Constipation or Diarrhea: Changes in how your gut works might occur, usually easing over time
• Insomnia: Bupropion can be energizing, so taking Contrave® too late might affect your sleep
• Dizziness: Some people feel lightheaded, especially at the start
• Dry Mouth: You might notice less saliva; staying hydrated can help

Serious Side Effects

Though more rare, some serious side effects can happen. These include:

• Higher Blood Pressure or Heart Rate: Your doctor may check these often
• Seizures: Mostly a risk if you exceed the recommended dose or have a history of seizures
• Mood Changes: Watch out for signs of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts
• Allergic Reactions: Seek immediate medical care if you notice trouble breathing, swelling, or hives

How to Take Contrave®

Contrave® has a starting schedule that helps your body adjust. Usually, doctors follow these steps:

1. Week 1: One pill in the morning
2. Week 2: One pill in the morning and one in the evening
3. Week 3: Two pills in the morning and one in the evening
4. Week 4 and Onward: Two pills in the morning and two in the evening

Your doctor might change this schedule based on how you respond. It’s generally advised to take Contrave® with food, but avoid high-fat meals. High-fat meals can increase the risk of seizures in some people taking bupropion. If you ever have questions or issues, talk to your healthcare provider.

Length of Treatment

Contrave® is meant for ongoing weight management. However, if you do not lose at least 5% of your starting weight after about 12 to 16 weeks, your doctor may suggest stopping it or trying a different approach.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Regular checkups matter when you’re on Contrave®. Your doctor or healthcare team will track:

• Weight and BMI: To see if you’re making progress
• Blood Pressure: To ensure it’s not going too high
• Mood and Mental Health: To spot any signs of anxiety or depression
• Liver and Kidney Function: Tests may be done if needed, though not always required

Staying in contact with your healthcare team helps catch any problems early and keeps you on track.

Practical Tips to Get the Most Out of Contrave®

Contrave® can help, but it works best when you combine it with healthy habits. Think of it as a piece of a puzzle, not the whole picture. Here are some tips:

1. Follow a Balanced Diet

Focus on whole foods: fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Try to cut back on sugary or processed foods. Eating fewer calories than you burn is key to losing weight, and choosing nutritious foods makes it easier to stick to a plan.

2. Exercise Regularly

Aim for both cardio (like walking, swimming, or biking) and strength training (like lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises). Start slowly if you’re new to working out and gradually increase how long or how hard you exercise.

3. Practice Mindful Eating

Pay attention to hunger cues and stop eating when you feel satisfied, not overly full. Try turning off the TV and setting your phone aside during meals. These steps can help you recognize and respond to your body’s signals better.

4. Manage Stress

Stress can cause people to overeat or choose unhealthy foods. Activities like meditation, yoga, or even simple breathing exercises can help lower stress, which in turn supports healthier eating habits.

5. Build a Support System

Talk to friends, family, or a community of people with similar goals. This support can keep you motivated, help you share tips, and make you feel less alone on your journey.

The Emotional Side of Weight Loss

Losing weight is about more than just numbers on a scale. It can affect your mood, your confidence, and your daily habits. While Contrave® tackles the physical side of hunger and cravings, taking care of your emotional health is just as important.

Addressing Emotional Eating

Emotional eating is when you eat not because you’re truly hungry, but because you’re stressed, bored, or upset. Contrave® can help lower cravings, but it doesn’t fix emotional triggers on its own. You may want to keep a journal, talk to a therapist, or find healthy ways to cope with emotions.

Staying Motivated

Success with weight loss often involves hitting little goals along the way. These could be “non-scale” goals like being able to walk a certain distance without getting tired, lifting a certain amount of weight, or cooking more meals at home. Celebrating these wins can keep your spirits up.

Comparing Contrave® to Other Weight Loss Medications

Several other prescription drugs can help with weight management. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Phentermine: Suppresses appetite by affecting the central nervous system. Often used for short periods due to possible side effects related to the heart.
• Liraglutide (Saxenda®) and Semaglutide (Wegovy®): Mimic a hormone (GLP-1) that helps control appetite and blood sugar. These are given by injection, often daily or weekly.
• Orlistat (Xenical®): Blocks some of the fat you eat from being absorbed. Can cause oily stools or other digestive issues if you eat too much fat.

Which medication is right for you depends on your health situation, side effect risks, and personal preferences. Talk to your doctor about your options.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Contrave® can be pricey if your insurance doesn’t cover it. Some plans will cover it if you meet certain requirements, like having a high BMI or a related health issue. You can also check for savings programs offered by the manufacturer or ask your pharmacy if they have coupons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How soon will I see results with Contrave®?

People respond differently. Some notice changes in the first few weeks, while others take a bit longer. Your eating habits, activity level, and overall health can all make a difference.

2. Can I stop Contrave® suddenly?

It’s best to talk to your doctor first. Stopping a medication abruptly might cause withdrawal effects or other issues. If you need to stop Contrave®, your doctor will guide you on how to do it safely.

3. What if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and take your next one at the usual time. Don’t double up on doses because that can raise the risk of seizures linked to bupropion.

4. Can I take Contrave® if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. Contrave® is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women because it may harm the baby. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

5. What if Contrave® doesn’t work for me?

If you haven’t lost at least 5% of your starting weight by about 12-16 weeks, your doctor may stop your prescription and talk about other weight loss methods. Sometimes, a different medication or a different plan may be more suitable.

Keep Your Expectations Realistic

Contrave® is not a “magic bullet.” It won’t burn off pounds by itself. Instead, it can help cut cravings and hunger so that it’s easier to follow a healthy eating plan and stay active. Consistency is key. Even with Contrave®, weight loss can go up and down. But by pairing medication with exercise, a good diet, and regular check-ins with your doctor, you can boost your chances of long-term success.

Setting Goals That Work

A realistic pace is losing about 1-2 pounds a week, though some people lose faster at first. Slow and steady weight loss is more likely to stick. It also gives your body and mind time to adjust. Write down your goals or track them in an app. Seeing your progress can make a big difference in keeping you motivated.

Support Systems

Seek out people who cheer you on. Maybe that’s your family, friends, or a support group—online or in person. Sharing challenges, tips, and successes can help you push through tough times.

Navigating Plateaus

Most people hit a weight loss plateau at some point. This happens when your body adjusts to fewer calories or the same workout. If this happens, you might need to switch up your exercise routine, adjust your eating plan, or revisit your goals with your healthcare provider or a dietitian.

Looking Ahead: Future Research

Obesity is a global health issue, and scientists are always looking for better treatments. New studies might help us learn more about how to predict who will respond best to Contrave® or other medications. Researchers may also test different drug combinations to see if they offer better results or fewer side effects.

Stories from Real People

Some people have shared that Contrave® helped them feel more in control of their eating. Others say it cut their cravings for junk food. Still, not everyone experiences huge weight loss, and side effects can be a problem for some. This is why it’s important to combine medical advice with real-life experiences, keeping in mind that everyone’s journey is unique.

Final Thoughts on Contrave®

Contrave® can be a helpful tool for adults who struggle with weight or health issues tied to being overweight. It targets hunger and cravings through two key components—bupropion and naltrexone. However, like any drug, it comes with risks and possible side effects.

Before you start Contrave®, be sure to:

• Talk to a Healthcare Professional: They can decide if it’s right for you based on your health history and other factors.
• Set Realistic Goals: Understand that pills alone won’t do the work; they’re an add-on to healthier eating and exercise.
• Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Combine medication with a balanced diet, regular workouts, and good stress management.
• Stay Monitored: Keep up with your follow-up visits so your doctor can track your weight, blood pressure, and mood—and adjust treatment if needed.

Weight loss is a journey that involves both physical and emotional effort. Contrave® may offer a helpful boost, but it’s only one part of the larger picture, which includes behavior changes and a supportive environment.

References

1. Greenway, F. L., Whitehouse, M. J., Guttadauria, M., et al. (2009). Rationale for the combination of bupropion and naltrexone for the treatment of obesity. Journal of Obesity, 2009, 1–5. doi:10.1155/2009/361607
2. Apovian, C. M., Aronne, L., Rubino, D., et al. (2016). A randomized, phase 3 trial of naltrexone SR/bupropion SR on weight and obesity-related risk factors (COR-I). Obesity, 24(1), 178–187. doi:10.1002/oby.21314
3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2014). FDA Approves Contrave® for Chronic Weight Management in Adults. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/
4. Contrave® (naltrexone HCl/bupropion HCl) Extended-Release Tablets [Prescribing Information]. (2021). Currax Pharmaceuticals LLC. Retrieved from https://contrave.com/
5. National Institutes of Health. (2022). Prescription Medications to Treat Overweight & Obesity. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/
6. National Library of Medicine. (2023). Naltrexone/bupropion. MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/

Disclaimer: This blog post is for general information only. It does not replace professional medical advice. Talk to a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if you have health problems or take any medications.