Contrave is an FDA-approved prescription-only weight loss pill. This diet drug is typically prescribed by doctors to patients who are excessively overweight or obese and who are at risk of health problems (e.g. diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease) due to their extreme weight. It is a medical treatment for obesity, designed to assist with weight loss by helping to suppress appetite by reducing feelings of hunger and curbing cravings.
Contrave is a brand name prescription drug that combines two medications: bupropion and naltrexone. Bupropion is an antidepressant medication, which can also lower appetite. Naltrexone is typically used for treating addiction problems and can block the effects of narcotics or alcohol. That said, like bupropion, it can also work to reduce hunger. The belief is that Contrave works on two areas of the brain: the hunger center and the reward system. In other words, it helps to reduce hunger and helps to control cravings.
According to three long-term (56 weeks) studies that have been conducted on Contrave, study participants who took this diet drug lost approximately 2 to 4 times more weight compared to diet and exercise alone.
That being said, you should know that not everyone responds well to Contrave. Common side effects associated with this Rx diet pill include: nausea, constipation, vomiting, headache, stomach pain, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, increased sweating, dry mouth and flushing. A strange taste in the mouth may also occur. If any of these side effects should persist or become worse, notify your doctor immediately.
Although less common, in some cases serious side effects may occur, such as mental or mood changes, uncontrolled movements, fainting, irregular heartbeat, eye pain, redness or swelling, etc. If you should notice these or any other severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
It should also be noted that bupropion may boost the risk of suicidal thinking in children, adolescents and young adults. Even adult patients should be monitored by their doctor for suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Moreover, keep in mind that Contrave may not be safe for everyone to take. It could interact poorly with other medications or it could have a negative effect on certain medical conditions. As such, you need to let your doctor know about any past or present health conditions you may have as well as any medication (e.g. prescription, non-prescription or supplements) you may be taking. You should also inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, nursing or planning on becoming pregnant.
This medication should be taken exactly as it has been prescribed and it is meant to be used in conjunction with a calorie-controlled diet and regular exercise.
