What is Contrave?

 Contrave is a nonstimulant, oral weight-loss medication approved by the FDA for use in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity by adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater (obese) or 27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) and at least one weight-related comorbid condition (eg, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or dyslipidemia).

 If your patients are trying to lose weight and keep it off, Contrave can help them do both by reducing hunger and cravings.

 Naltrexone/bupropion (Contrave) is an extended-release tablet that combines naltrexone, an opioid receptor antagonist, with bupropion, dopamine, and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor.

 With its novel approach, Contrave suppresses appetite and regulates food cravings by acting on two distinct brain regions. As of 2015, Contrave was the only FDA-approved medicine that combined sustained-release (SR) naltrexone and bupropion, two drugs that work together to affect the brain's reward and appetite centers. 

Some persons with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or higher (obesity) or a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or higher (overweight) with at least one weight-related medical issue, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes, may have success with the weight reduction medication Contrave.

You can boost the effectiveness of Contrave by reducing your caloric intake and increasing your activity level.

It is unknown if Contrave increases or decreases your risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, or death from either of these causes.

 Concerns have been raised about the compatibility of Contrave with OTC and prescription diet pills, as well as herbal supplements.

 The FDA has not yet approved Contrave to treat depression or other mental diseases, or as an aid in smoking cessation (smoking cessation).

Contrave for Weight Loss 

When combined with a regimen of decreased calorie eating, regular exercise, and behavior modification prescribed by your doctor, this drug can be effective for weight loss. People who are obese or have health issues related to their weight often take this.

 When combined with a regimen of decreased calorie eating, regular exercise, and behavior modification prescribed by your doctor, this drug can be effective for weight loss. People who are obese or have health issues related to their weight often take this.

 For those with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, Contrave is a useful weight loss aid. Naltrexone and bupropion are the two drugs that makeup Contrave.

 Body Mass Index and Contrave

 Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more may benefit from using Contrave as part of a comprehensive weight management program that also includes a healthy, balanced diet and frequent exercise. A body mass index is a number based on your stats. The body mass index (BMI) is something you should research.

 People with a BMI of 27 or above may also benefit from this treatment if they have at least one weight-related health issue, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, or obstructive sleep apnea.

 Contrave contains both naltrexone and bupropion in a single pill. When combined, they curb appetite and curb food cravings, making it easier to stick to a healthy diet and shed excess pounds.

Dosage

During the first week, the recommended starting dose is 1 pill taken first thing in the morning. Over the course of 4 weeks, the dosage is increased gradually as follows:

• Always take Contrave exactly as your doctor has told you.
• The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much to take, how often to take it, and any special instructions.

How to take Contrave

• Swallow the tablets whole; don't crush, chew, or halve tablets.
• It's best to take Contrave with food.
• If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. But, if it is nearly time for your next dose, just take the next dose at the right time. Don't take double the dose.
• Do not take Contrave with high-fat meals. It may increase your risk of seizures.
• Avoid or limit alcohol while you are taking Contrave. Alcohol can increase your risk of side effects such as drowsiness. 
• Some people don't respond to Contrave. Treatment should not be continued for more than 16 weeks if you have not lost more than 5% of your initial body weight.
• The FDA has not yet approved Contrave for the treatment of depression or other mental illnesses, or as a help in smoking cessation (smoking cessation).
• When used in conjunction with a calorie-restricted diet, regular exercise, and other lifestyle adjustments prescribed by your doctor, this medication can help you lose weight. People with obesity or weight-related health problems are among those who utilize it.
• When used in conjunction with a calorie-restricted diet, regular exercise, and other lifestyle adjustments prescribed by your doctor, this medication can help you lose weight. People with obesity or weight-related health problems are among those who utilize it.

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