Contrave is an FDA approved medication that helps patients 18 years of age or older lose weight when taken along with diet and exercise. Contrave, as a weight loss treatment, is recommended to patients who are obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or above that have attempted to lose weight by modifying diet and exercise frequently, but have failed to lose excess body fat.
While genetics play an important role in obesity, there are complex behavioral components that trigger hunger, reward, and impulse in the brain that cause some individuals to overindulge, leading to the accumulation of body fat. There are also psychological contributors such as depression, stress, and anxiety that can trigger overeating, which can make it extremely difficult for some to lose weight.
Why is Contrave Different?
What makes Contrave different from other weight loss treatments available on the market is that it combines two medications, naltrexone and bupropion, that target the addictive component of overeating and depressive behaviors that inhibit physical activity or motivation. Naltrexone alone is normally prescribed to patients with an opiate addiction, and other narcotics such as morphine, heroine, and codeine. Naltrexone works on obesity targeting receptors in the brain to inhibit the feelings of reward the body feels when overeats. Bupropion on the other hand is an antidepressant that targets the feelings of sadness or lack of interest that inhibits the body from being active.
While Contrave can help patients lose weight, there are some serious side effects and other warnings to consider before taking this powerful medication. Like many weight loss treatments available, Contrave only works if it is taken along with a well-balanced diet and regular exercise. Patients that have obesity related conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or type II diabetes may benefit from the Contrave as it helps reduce body fat and keep weight off when used as directed.
Contrave Efficacy Chart with Diet and Exercise
Source: https://contravehcp.com
Things To Consider Before Taking Contrave
Suicidal Thoughts: Taking Contrave may increase suicidal thoughts in younger patients. While taking Contrave, users and family members are advised to monitor abnormal changes in mood, or notices unusual behaviors as they may worsen over time. Patients with depression may see symptoms worsen at the beginning of the Contrave treatment. It is advised that you stop taking Contrave and contact a medical professional if you experience feelings of aggression, panic attacks, severe anxiety or irritability.
Liver Damage: Patients with a history of liver disease should not take Contrave as it may causer or worsen the condition. Stop taking Contrave if you experience abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing of the whites of the eyes, or fatigue. To minimize the risk for liver damage, do not take Contrave with alcohol or any other pain medications.
High Blood Pressure: Patients who have uncontrolled high blood pressure should not take Contrave as it can increase diastolic and diastolic blood pressure that can lead to serious complications such as heart attack or stroke. Contrave may also increase resting heart rate, which poses a risk for patients with heart disease. Your doctor will recommend blood labs and regular blood pressure monitoring to ensure that Contrave can be safely administered.
Patients considering taking Contrave should note that this weight loss treatment should only be used as tool to help lose excess body fat, and that results will vary dependent on diet and exercise. When taking Contrave, do not hesitate to report any unusual side effects to your doctor to avoid serious health complications. It is recommended that patients take Contrave along with mental therapy to help minimize mental health side effects.
To save money on Contrave, visit our Contrave Discounts and Coupons page.
