What is Contrave?
Contrave is a prescription medication approved by the FDA to help adults with obesity, or who are overweight with weight-related medical problems, to lose weight and keep it off. It is a combination of two active ingredients, naltrexone and bupropion, in an extended-release tablet. Contrave is designed as part of a comprehensive weight management program that includes a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It is not intended for cosmetic weight loss or to treat depression, though one of its components is an antidepressant.
How does Contrave work?
Contrave works by combining two medications, naltrexone and bupropion, which target parts of the brain involved in regulating appetite, cravings, and reward pathways. Bupropion acts on the hypothalamus, an area of the brain that helps control hunger, to decrease your appetite. Naltrexone works on the mesolimbic dopamine pathway, which is your brain’s reward system. By doing so, it helps control the cravings and the pleasurable feelings you get from eating certain foods. This dual action helps you feel less hungry and reduces food cravings, making it easier to stick to your diet and lose weight.
Who is Contrave for?
Contrave is intended for adults aged 18 and over who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater (obesity), or a BMI of 27 or greater (overweight) along with at least one weight-related health condition like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. This medication is not suitable for everyone. It should not be used by individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, a seizure disorder, or an eating disorder like anorexia or bulimia. It is also contraindicated for patients taking opioids or who are pregnant.
Dosage and administration
Contrave treatment begins with a gradual dose increase over four weeks to reach the full maintenance dose, which helps minimize potential side effects. Your doctor will instruct you to start with one tablet each morning for the first week, then increase the dose weekly until you reach the full maintenance dose of two tablets twice a day by week four. The tablets must be swallowed whole and should not be cut, chewed, or crushed. Importantly, you should not take Contrave with high-fat meals, as this can increase your risk of seizures. If you miss a dose, skip it and wait for your next scheduled dose.
Side effects
The most common side effects of Contrave include nausea, constipation, headache, vomiting, dizziness, insomnia, and dry mouth. These effects are often mild and may decrease as your body adjusts to the medication. However, Contrave also carries warnings about more serious risks due to its active ingredients. Bupropion has been linked to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts. Both ingredients can increase the risk of seizures, especially if taken with a high-fat meal or if you have certain predispositions. It can also increase blood pressure and heart rate. You must not take opioids while using Contrave due to the risk of overdose or withdrawal.
Why buy from IsraelPharm?
IsraelPharm offers a reliable and convenient way to purchase Contrave at competitive prices, backed by a team of experienced pharmacists and a commitment to global health standards. We provide access to authentic, brand-name medications sourced from regulated suppliers, ensuring you receive the same Contrave prescribed by your doctor. Our streamlined online ordering process, dedicated customer support, and discreet shipping to your door make managing your prescription simple and stress-free. Trust IsraelPharm for affordable healthcare delivered with expertise and care.
Most people taking Contrave experience minimal side effects, but some may occur. The most common ones often lessen over time. Always consult your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
Common side effects may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
- Dry mouth
Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. These include:
- Thoughts about suicide or dying (a known risk with bupropion).
- Seizures, especially if you have a history of them.
- Severe liver problems or hepatitis.
- Increased blood pressure or heart rate.
- Risk of opioid overdose if using opioid medications.
This is not a complete list. Discuss all potential risks with your healthcare provider.
Contrave is a prescription medication used for chronic weight management in adults, in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It is specifically indicated for individuals who are:
- Obese (with an initial Body Mass Index, BMI, of 30 kg/m² or greater)
- Overweight (with an initial BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater) and have at least one weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol (dyslipidemia).