Naltrexone / Bupropion
Contrave
Contrave is a prescription weight-loss medication for adults who are overweight or have obesity-related health conditions. It combines two drugs: naltrexone, which helps control cravings, and bupropion, which can reduce appetite. Contrave works best alongside a healthy diet and exercise plan. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage, which gradually increases over time. While effective, Contrave can have side effects like increased heart rate, and may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health conditions. You can buy Contrave online from Canada with a prescription from your doctor.
Product Overview
Contrave is a prescription medication designed to help adults manage their weight, particularly those who are overweight or dealing with obesity-related health problems. It’s made up of two active ingredients: naltrexone and bupropion. Naltrexone helps to block certain cravings, while bupropion works to reduce appetite. Together, they can help people lose weight when used alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise.
The medication comes in extended-release tablets, and you’ll start with a low dose that gradually increases over the first few weeks. This gradual increase helps your body adjust and minimizes side effects. It’s important to take Contrave for weight management exactly as prescribed to avoid serious side effects like an increased heart rate, liver damage, or even suicidal thoughts, particularly in younger adults.
Contrave isn’t for everyone—it’s not meant to treat depression or help with smoking cessation. If you have health issues like uncontrolled high blood pressure or a history of seizures, you’ll need to discuss these with your doctor before starting treatment. Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider will ensure the medication is working effectively and safely for you and you can easily buy Contrave from Canada with a valid prescription.
What Is Contrave Used For?
Contrave is used to treat the following medical conditions:
- Manage weight in adults who are obese or overweight and have weight-related health problems.
- Block the effects of opioids or alcohol in people with addiction issues
- Reduce hunger and cravings for food (thus reducing appetite).
[Important Warning: Contrave is not approved for the treatment of depression or other psychiatric conditions or for helping people quit smoking.]
What Strengths Does Contrave Come In?
Contrave is available in the form of extended-release (ER) oral tablets. “Extended-release” means that the tablets gradually release the medication into your body over time after you swallow them. Contrave tablets come in only one strength, and each tablet contains:
- 8 milligrams (mg) of naltrexone
- 90 mg of bupropion
What Is the Typical Dosage of Contrave?
The typical dosage of Contrave for weight management can vary based on your individual health condition and the guidance of your healthcare provider. Usually, doctors start with a standard dose and then adjust it to fit your needs over time. Here’s a general overview of the usual dosage:
Dosage for Weight Loss & Weight Management
- Starting Dosage: Your doctor will begin your treatment with a low dose and adjust it gradually to find the right amount for you. The goal is to use the lowest effective dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions for dosing. They will determine the best dosage for your needs based on the chart provided by the drug manufacturer.
- Week 1: Start with one tablet each morning.
- Week 2: Take two tablets, one in the morning and another in the evening.
- Week 3: Take three tablets, two in the morning and one in the evening.
- Week 4: Take four tablets, two in the morning and two in the evening daily.
- Maintenance Dosage: From week four onwards, you will likely continue with two tablets in the morning and two in the evening as your long-term dose.
[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]
How Do You Take Contrave?
When taking Contrave, it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely. Never adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without first consulting your doctor. Here are some simple guidelines to help you use Contrave correctly:
- Swallow Contrave tablets whole; do not crush, chew, or break them.
- You can take Contrave with or without food, but avoid taking it with high-fat foods to reduce the risk of side effects.
- If you have difficulty swallowing tablets, seek advice on alternative methods for taking the medication.
- If you have difficulty reading labels or opening containers, ask your pharmacist for accessible options, such as large print labels, audio labels, or easy-open containers. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and consult them for any questions or concerns regarding your Contraceptive treatment.
- Taking Your Doses:
- There’s no specific recommended time for taking the evening dose of Contrave.
- You can take the morning and evening doses at times that suit you, but try to keep them 12 hours apart.
- Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist the best timing for your doses based on your daily routine.
- Dosage Adjustments:
- Your doctor might reduce your Contrave dosage if your liver or kidneys are not functioning properly.
- Dosage adjustments may also be necessary if you are taking certain other medications.
- Always consult with your doctor before starting or stopping any other medications during your Contrave treatment.
- Factors Influencing Dosage: Your dosage may depend on factors such as your age, kidney and liver function, and other medications you’re taking.
- Long-Term Use:
- Contrave is generally used as a long-term treatment.
- If Contrave is effective and safe for you, you’ll likely take it for an extended period.
- However, if there’s no improvement within 12 weeks, your doctor may advise you to stop taking the medication.
- Stopping Contrave:
- If you feel Contrave is not working for you, consult your doctor.
- Do not stop taking Contrave without your doctor’s advice.
- Generally, people do not experience side effects when discontinuing Contrave treatment.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]
How Does Contrave Work?
Contrave is a medication designed to help adults lose weight when used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise. It comes as an extended-release tablet, meaning it slowly releases its ingredients over time. Contrave contains two active ingredients: bupropion and naltrexone. Bupropion, an antidepressant, works by balancing brain chemicals like norepinephrine and dopamine, which help regulate mood and improve communication between brain cells. Naltrexone blocks certain brain receptors, which helps reduce the release of dopamine, the chemical linked to the pleasure of eating. Together, these two ingredients help control cravings and reduce appetite, making it easier to manage weight.
What Are the Important Safety Information for Using Contrave?
What Are the Side Effects of Contrave?
Common Contrave Side Effects: Medications like Contrave can lead to some common side effects. These are generally temporary and may last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. However, if any of these persist, bother you, or get worse, it’s important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist for guidance and to ensure your safety. Common side effects of Contrave may include:
- Dry mouth: You may feel unusually thirsty or notice that your mouth feels dry, which can be uncomfortable.
- Diarrhea: You might experience loose stools or more frequent bowel movements than usual.
- Insomnia (trouble sleeping): Finding it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep is a common side effect.
- Vomiting: You might feel nauseous and possibly end up throwing up.
- Headache: A mild to moderate headache can occur during the initial stages of using Contrave.
- Nausea: You may feel an uneasy or queasy feeling in your stomach, sometimes leading to the urge to vomit.
- Constipation: A feeling of being unable to pass stools easily, or having less frequent bowel movements than normal.
- Dizziness: You may feel lightheaded or unsteady, especially when standing up quickly.
Mild Contrave Side Effects: Contrave can cause some mild side effects that are usually temporary, and your body may adjust to them over time. However, if they last longer than expected or become bothersome, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor or primary caregiver. Mild side effects of Contrave may include:
- Insomnia (trouble sleeping): You might find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night.
- Diarrhea: This could mean more frequent or loose stools, which may cause some discomfort.
- Vomiting: Feeling nauseous and potentially throwing up is a common side effect in the early stages of treatment.
- Nausea: You may experience an unsettled stomach, causing the urge to vomit.
- Tremors: Shaking or trembling of the hands or other parts of your body might occur.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or low on energy, which can affect your daily activities.
- Hot flashes: You may suddenly feel warm or flushed, which can happen throughout the day.
- Headache: A mild to moderate headache may develop.
- Constipation: Difficulty in passing stools, or fewer bowel movements than usual.
- Dizziness: You may feel lightheaded or unsteady, especially when standing up quickly.
- Mild allergic reaction: This could involve mild skin reactions like redness, itching, or hives.
- Dry mouth: A feeling of dryness or excessive thirst in your mouth.
- Anxiety: You may experience feelings of nervousness, restlessness, or worry.
- Hair loss: A decrease in hair density or shedding more hair than usual.
Serious Contrave Side Effects: Contrave can lead to more serious side effects. If you notice any of the following, it’s crucial to contact your doctor immediately. If any of these symptoms seem life-threatening or if you feel you’re in a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or 911 right away. Serious side effects of Contrave may include:
- Increased heart rate or blood pressure. Signs include:
- Lightheadedness or dizziness: You may feel faint or unsteady.
- Rapid heart rate: Your heart may beat faster than usual.
- Headache: A strong, persistent headache may occur.
- Heart palpitations: You may feel like your heart is pounding or skipping beats.
- Seizure. Signs include:
- Confusion: You may feel disoriented or have trouble understanding what’s happening around you.
- Uncontrollable body movements: Seizures can cause jerking or twitching movements that you can’t control.
- Loss of consciousness or awareness: You may faint or lose touch with your surroundings.
- Angle-closure glaucoma. Signs include:
- Seeing rings or halos around lights: This visual disturbance can occur, making lights look strange.
- Severe headache: Intense, throbbing pain in your head.
- Blurred vision: Your vision may become cloudy or unclear.
- Eye pain: You may experience discomfort or sharp pain in your eyes.
- Hepatitis (liver inflammation) or Liver damage. Signs include:
- Fatigue: A feeling of extreme tiredness or lack of energy.
- Jaundice: Your skin or the whites of your eyes may turn yellow.
- Dark urine: Your urine may appear brownish or very dark.
- Abdominal pain: You might feel discomfort or pain in your stomach or upper abdomen.
- Severe allergic reaction: Signs may include:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing: This could cause swelling in your throat or difficulty getting air into your lungs.
- Hives or skin rash: Raised, red, or itchy bumps could appear on your skin.
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat: A serious allergic reaction can cause visible swelling in these areas.
- Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors: If you start feeling hopeless, have thoughts of harming yourself, or notice changes in mood or behavior, seek immediate help from a healthcare professional.
[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]
What Are the Warnings for Using Contrave?
Before starting Contrave for weight management, it’s important to discuss your medical history with your doctor. Contrave might not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have certain health conditions or other factors that affect your health. These include:
- Smoking Cessation: Contrave is not approved to help quit smoking. However, one of its ingredients, bupropion, is used for this purpose. When bupropion is taken to stop smoking, some people may experience serious mental health issues such as:
- Depression
- Psychosis (losing touch with reality)
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Thoughts of suicide
- Triggering of Manic Episodes: Contrave contains bupropion, which is commonly used to treat depression. However, antidepressants like bupropion can sometimes cause:
- Mania
- Mixed mood states
- Hypomania
- Seizures: Bupropion, a main ingredient in Contrave, can increase the risk of seizures, especially at higher doses. Before starting Contrave, tell your doctor if you have:
- A seizure disorder
- A history of anorexia or bulimia
- Recently stopped using alcohol or certain medications
- Low Blood Sugar: If you have type 2 diabetes and are losing weight with Contrave, you might be at higher risk of low blood sugar, especially if you take insulin or medications that increase insulin production, such as:
- Glyburide (Diabeta)
- Glipizide (Glucotrol XL)
- Glimepiride (Amaryl)
- Untreated or Unmanaged High Blood Pressure: If you have high blood pressure that is not controlled or treated, Contrave may not be safe for you. This medication can raise your blood pressure and heart rate. It’s unclear how this increase might affect those with a history of heart disease or stroke. Therefore, doctors usually do not prescribe Contrave to people with untreated high blood pressure.
- Allergic Reaction: If you have ever had an allergic reaction to Contrave or any of its ingredients, you should not take this medication. Talk to your doctor about alternative treatments that may be safer for you.
What is the black box warning on Contrave?
Contrave carries a boxed warning, which is the highest level of warning issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This warning alerts both doctors and patients to potential serious side effects of the drug.
- One of the active ingredients in Contrave, bupropion, is an antidepressant. In people with depression or other mental health conditions, antidepressants like bupropion can increase the risk of having suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
- This risk is particularly high in young individuals, including children, teenagers, and young adults up to 24 years old. The risk is highest during the initial months of treatment or when the dosage is being adjusted.
- If you are taking Contrave, it is important to monitor yourself for any unusual changes in your mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings. You should also ask your family members, caregivers, and healthcare providers to be alert for these changes.
What Are the Cautions for Contrave?
When taking Contrave for weight management, there are important precautions to follow to ensure the medication is both safe and effective. Here are key points to remember:
- Pregnancy: It’s not advised to use Contrave during pregnancy. While there are no reports of Contrave causing fetal development issues or pregnancy loss, losing weight during pregnancy is generally not recommended due to potential risks to the fetus; if you become pregnant while on Contrave, your doctor will likely advise stopping the medication.
- Birth Control: If you’re sexually active and there’s a possibility of pregnancy, discuss birth control options with your doctor while taking Contrave.
- Breastfeeding: The active ingredients in Contrave, bupropion and naltrexone can transfer into breast milk and may harm a breastfeeding child. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Contrave; if you’re breastfeeding or planning to, consult with your doctor for alternative treatments.
Who Should Not Take Contrave?
Contrave for obesity treatment should not be prescribed to individuals who:
- Have uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Suffer from seizure disorders.
- Have a history of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia.
- Are abruptly stopping the use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or antiepileptic drugs.
- Are currently taking medications that contain bupropion, a component of Contrave.
- Are using opioids on a regular basis
- Are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), a type of antidepressant.
- Have an allergy to naltrexone or bupropion, the active ingredients in Contrave, or any other components of the medication.
It is important for healthcare providers to review a patient’s medical history and current medications to ensure that Contrave is a safe and appropriate treatment option.
What If You Miss a Dose of Contrave?
If you happen to miss a dose of Contrave for weight management, here’s what you can do:
- Take it as soon as you remember—but if it’s almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed dose.
- Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
- Stick to your regular schedule and continue taking Contrave as directed by your healthcare provider.
[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]
What Happens If You Take Too Much Contrave?
If you take more Contrave for obesity treatment than your doctor has prescribed, you might experience serious side effects. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and do not exceed the recommended dosage of Contrave. Signs of a Contrave overdose can include:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Muscle jerks or twitches
If you believe you have taken too much Contrave for weight management, contact your doctor immediately. You can also reach out to America’s Poison Centers or use their online tool. In case of severe symptoms, call your local emergency number or 911, or head to the nearest emergency room without delay.
[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How Do You Store Contrave?
To keep Contrave for obesity treatment safe and effective, follow these simple storage guidelines:
- Store it at room temperature—keep it in a dry place, away from moisture and heat.
- Avoid storing in the bathroom or near windows, as humidity and temperature changes can affect the medication.
- Keep it out of reach of children—store Contrave in a secure place to prevent accidental use.
- Do not freeze the medication.
- Check expiration date—never use Contrave past its expiration date, and dispose of any unused pills properly.
[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]
What Drugs Interact with Contrave?
Contrave for obesity treatment can interact with several medications, affecting how well it works or increasing side effects. Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines, vitamins, and supplements you’re taking. Some key interactions to be aware of include:
- MAOIs: Avoid taking Contrave with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) due to the risk of high blood pressure. If you’re on an MAOI, you’ll need to stop it and wait at least 14 days before starting Contrave.
- Opioids: Contrave can reduce the effectiveness of opioid pain relievers and may lead to withdrawal symptoms or overdose if not managed properly. Stop taking opioids at least 7 to 10 days before starting Contrave.
- CYP2B6 Inducers: Drugs that induce CYP2B6 can decrease bupropion levels, making Contrave less effective. Examples include ritonavir, lopinavir, and efavirenz.
- Drugs Affected by CYP2D6: Contrave can alter the levels of medications metabolized by CYP2D6, such as certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and heart rhythm medications.
- Digoxin: Contrave can decrease the availability of digoxin in the body. Your doctor will monitor your digoxin levels if you take both medications.
- CYP2B6 Inhibitors: These drugs can increase bupropion levels in the body, raising the risk of side effects. Examples include ticlopidine and clopidogrel.
- Drugs That Increase Seizure Risk: Contrave may raise the risk of seizures, especially when taken with other medications that have a similar risk, such as certain antipsychotics, antidepressants, theophylline, and corticosteroids.
- Dopaminergic Drugs: Combining Contrave with dopaminergic drugs like levodopa and amantadine can lead to central nervous system (CNS) toxicity, resulting in symptoms like decreased alertness, restlessness, tremors, trouble walking, or dizziness.
What Are the Other Interactions to Contrave?
In addition to the previously mentioned drug interactions, Contrave can also interact with certain foods, beverages, and medical conditions, which can impact its effectiveness or increase the likelihood of side effects. These interactions may require adjustments to your treatment plan. Here are some additional factors to consider:
- Interaction with Herbs and Supplements: While no specific herbs or supplements have been reported to interact with Contrave, it’s still wise to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any new products while taking Contrave.
- Interaction with Foods: If you take Contrave with meals, avoid high-fat meals. High-fat meals can increase the level of the drug in your body, potentially leading to more side effects.
- Interaction with Lab Tests: bupropion, an active ingredient in Contrave, may cause false-positive results in urine tests for amphetamines. If you’re undergoing urine testing, inform the testing facility that you’re taking Contrave to avoid false positives.
- Interaction with Alcohol: Although no direct interactions between Contrave and alcohol were reported in clinical trials, it’s important to be cautious. Contrave contains bupropion, which can affect your mood and behavior when combined with alcohol. You might experience agitation, depression, or sleeping problems, and your alcohol tolerance may be lower. To avoid these risks, it’s best to limit or avoid alcohol while taking Contrave.
Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen or if you have questions about potential interactions or even if you want to get affordable Contrave for appetite control. Your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current medications.
[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Contrave. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]
What Are the Alternatives to Contrave?
If Contrave doesn’t seem like the right fit for your weight management journey, or if it isn’t delivering the expected results, there are other options to consider. Many individuals explore alternatives if they experience side effects or need a different approach. However, before making any changes, it’s essential to consult your doctor. They will evaluate your overall health, current medications, and specific needs to recommend the most suitable treatment. Some common alternatives to Contrave for weight management include:
- Actos (pioglitazone)
- Zepbound (tirzepatide)
- Jardiance (empagliflozin)
- Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Byette (exenatide)
- Victoza (liraglutide)
- Steglatro (ertugliflozin)
- Tradjenta (linagliptin)
- Avandia (rosiglitazone)
- Nesina (alogliptin)
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
- Invokana (canagliflozin)
- Saxenda (liraglutide)
- Farxiga (dapagliflozin)
- Glucophage (metformin)
- Rybelsus (semaglutide oral)
- Adlyxin (lixisenatide)
- Trulicity (dulaglutide)
- Januvia (sitagliptin)
- Prescose (acarbose)
- Wegovy (semaglutide)
- Bydureon Bcise (exenatide)
- Onglyza (saxagliptin)
[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Contrave Coupons & Cost
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Contrave the same as Ozempic?
No, Contrave and Ozempic are not the same. Ozempic is primarily used for managing diabetes, with weight loss being a secondary benefit. It helps with blood sugar control, which can lead to weight loss. Contrave, on the other hand, is specifically designed to help with weight loss by controlling appetite. Ozempic is taken as a weekly injection, while Contrave is an oral pill taken daily.
How long can I stay on Contrave?
Your doctor will check your progress after about 16 weeks of using Contrave. To continue taking it, you need to have lost at least 5% of your starting weight by this time. If you haven’t reached this goal, your doctor may suggest stopping the medication.
Which is better, phentermine or Contrave?
Both phentermine and Contrave are used for weight loss, but they work in different ways. Phentermine is a short-term medication that suppresses appetite, helping you eat less. Contrave also reduces hunger and cravings, but it’s designed for long-term use to help manage weight over time. If you need a quick, short-term solution, phentermine may be more suitable.
Can I drink coffee on Contrave?
Yes, you can drink coffee while taking Contrave, but be careful not to overdo it. Contrave contains Bupropion, which can interact with caffeine and cause side effects like anxiety, irritability, trouble sleeping, and high blood pressure. It’s best to limit your caffeine intake and pay attention to how your body responds.
What does Contrave do to your body?
Contrave helps with weight loss by acting as an appetite suppressant. It reduces hunger and cravings, making it easier to eat fewer calories. For the best results, Contrave should be taken as part of a weight management plan that includes eating a balanced, lower-calorie diet and staying active.
How to lose the most weight with Contrave?
For the best weight loss results, use Contrave along with a healthy, low-calorie diet and regular exercise. Studies show that people who combined Contrave with physical activity and a reduced-calorie diet lost 2 to 4 times more weight than those who didn’t follow these lifestyle changes.
How quickly do you lose weight on Contrave?
Many people start seeing weight loss within the first four weeks of taking Contrave. After 16 weeks, studies show that about 45% of people lose at least 5% of their body weight. Individual results can vary, so it’s important to follow a healthy diet and exercise routine to maximize the effects of the medication.
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