As a family medicine and obesity medicine physician, I often encounter individuals struggling with weight management. One of the medications I discuss with my patients is Contrave, which can be a valuable tool in the journey toward a healthier weight. In this post, we’ll delve into what Contrave is, how it works, and what you need to know before considering it as part of your weight loss plan.
What is Contrave?
Contrave is a prescription medication specifically approved for weight management in adults. It combines two active ingredients: naltrexone and bupropion.
- Naltrexone is primarily used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence. It works on the brain's opioid receptors, helping to reduce cravings and the pleasure derived from eating.
- Bupropion is an antidepressant that also aids in smoking cessation. It influences neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help in reducing appetite and enhancing mood.
How Does Contrave Help with Weight Management?
The combination of these two medications targets the central nervous system to help reduce hunger, control cravings, and improve mood, all of which are essential factors in successful weight loss. By addressing both physiological and psychological aspects of eating, Contrave can assist individuals on their weight loss journey.
FDA Approval and Weight Loss Expectations
Contrave was approved by the FDA in 2014 for chronic weight management in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater, or a BMI of 27 or greater with associated weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
On average, patients using Contrave can expect to lose 5-10% of their total body weight over a year when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. However, individual results may vary.
Risks and Benefits
Benefits of Contrave:
- Assists in appetite control and reduces cravings.
- Can lead to significant weight loss when used alongside lifestyle changes.
- May improve other health conditions linked to obesity, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
- May help improve mood and depressive symptoms.
- May help someone reduce their cigarette smoking or help them quit smoking altogether.
Possible side effects of Contrave may include:
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
Contraindications; Contrave should not be used in individuals with:
- A history of seizures.
- Eating disorders (such as bulimia or anorexia).
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Uncontrolled hyperthyroidism.
- Use of opioids (prescribed or recreational).
- Use of other bupropion-containing products (ex: Wellbutrin).
Cost of Contrave
The cost of Contrave can vary based on insurance coverage and the pharmacy you use. Without insurance, the monthly cost can range from $150 to $250. Many insurance plans do cover Contrave, so check with your provider to determine your out-of-pocket costs.
Important Considerations
Before starting Contrave, it’s essential to have an open and honest discussion with your healthcare provider about your weight loss goals, current health conditions, and any concerns you may have. Remember, medication can be a helpful complement to lifestyle changes, but it’s most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Conclusion
Contrave can be an effective option for adults in Missouri looking to manage their weight, especially those with prediabetes or diabetes. If you’re considering this medication, I encourage you to reach out for a consultation at Missouri Metabolic Health to discuss your options and develop a personalized weight management plan.
To learn even more about Contrave and other medication options available, please check out my YouTube video where I explain the "older" medications as well as the video where I explain the "newer" medications.
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