Exploring Contrave: Unveiling Its Potential Side Effects, Dosage, and Furthermore

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What is Qsymia?

Exploring Contrave: Unveiling Its Potential Side Effects, Dosage, and Furthermore

Qsymia is a brand-name prescription medication that's been FDA-approved to aid adults in shedding weight when paired with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

This medication has certain limitations in its use and requires a minimum body mass index (BMI) threshold. BMI is a rough estimate of a person's body fat, calculated using height and weight. For more information, check out the "Qsymia for weight loss and weight management" section below.

Drug specifics

Qsymia comprises two active ingredients: phentermine and topiramate. Phentermine belongs to a class of drugs called anorectics, while topiramate is part of an anticonvulsant group.

Qsymia is an oral extended-release pill, meaning its active components are slowly released over an extended period. It comes in one strength: 3.75 milligrams (mg) of phentermine and 92 mg of topiramate.

When beginning Qsymia, your doctor will advise you to gradually increase the pill count and frequency. Once your body adjusts, you'll take two pills in the morning and two in the evening.

Efficiency

For information about Qsymia's effectiveness, check out the "Qsymia for weight loss and weight management" section below.

Qsymia side effects

Qsymia can lead to mild or severe side effects. The following lists contain some of the key side effects that may occur while taking Qsymia. These lists do not include all possible side effects.

For further information about the potential side effects of Qsymia, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. They can provide guidance on managing any side effects that may be concerning or bothersome.

Note: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) keeps track of side effects for drugs it has approved. If you've experienced a side effect from Qsymia, you can report it through MedWatch.

Morning dose

Mild side effects

Mild side effects* of Qsymia can include:

  • nausea or vomiting
  • headache
  • dizziness
  • insomnia
  • dry mouth
  • diarrhea or constipation
  • hot flashes†

Evening dose

Most of these side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. However, if they become more severe or don't disappear, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Serious side effects from Qsymia are rare, but they can occur. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects. Call 911 or your local emergency number if your symptoms seem life-threatening or if you believe you're having a medical emergency.

Serious side effects and their symptoms can include:

  • Increased blood pressure or heart rate. Symptoms* can include:
    • feeling lightheaded
    • rapid heart rate
    • headache
  • Seizures. Symptoms can include:
    • loss of consciousness
    • muscle spasms
    • drooling or frothing at the mouth
  • Allergic reaction.†
  • Liver damage or hepatitis.†
  • Suicidal thoughts and behaviors.†‡
  • Angle-closure glaucoma. Symptoms can include:
    • severe headache
    • eye pain
    • blurred vision

Side effect breakdown

Week 1

Below are more details about certain side effects that this drug may cause.

Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

Qsymia may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This medication carries a from the FDA for this side effect. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the FDA.

one tablet

In individuals with depression or other mental health conditions, antidepressants like topiramate can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Topiramate is one of the active ingredients in Qsymia.

Qsymia can increase this risk in children, adolescents, and young adults (up to age 24 years). Due to the severity of this side effect, Qsymia is not approved for use in children.

While taking Qsymia, be aware of any unusual changes in your mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Ask loved ones, caregivers, and healthcare professionals you interact with to watch for such changes.

none

If you have any symptoms of worsening depression or suicidal thoughts, contact your doctor immediately.

Help is available

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or self-harm, seek support:

  • Call or text the 988 Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. Caring counselors are available to listen and provide free and confidential support 24/7.
  • Text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor for free and confidential support 24/7.
  • Not in the United States? Find a helpline in your country with Befrienders Worldwide.
  • Call 911 or your local emergency services number if you feel safe to do so.

If you're calling on behalf of someone else, stay with them until help arrives. You may remove weapons or substances that could cause harm if you can do so safely.

If you're not in the same household, stay on the phone with them until help arrives.

Week 2

Signs of liver distress include persistent tummy ache beyond several days, dark colored pee, and yellowing of the eye whites. If you encounter any of these indicators, contact your healthcare professional right away.

If you already have liver issues, your physician will likely prescribe a lower Contrave dosage. In the event of severe liver problems, your doctor might advise stopping Contrave usage entirely.

Heat flashes

one tablet

Some trial participants reported experiencing redness flare-ups while using Contrave. A heat flash, also known as a heat surge, is an abrupt feeling of warmth. This sensation can affect the whole body or just the upper part, and may cause temporary warmth, skin redness, or deepening of skin color on the chest, arms, and back.

To alleviate heat flash symptoms, consider the following:

  • Dressing in layers you can easily remove as needed
  • Avoiding alcohol consumption
  • Quitting smoking
  • Taking cool showers
  • Utilizing a portable fan as required

one tablet

For additional suggestions to help manage heat flashes, refer to this article.

If bothersome heat flashes resulting from Contrave use persist, inform your doctor. They might have additional suggestions for managing this side effect.

Allergic reactions

Just like other medications, some individuals may encounter an allergic reaction after taking Contrave.

Mild allergic reaction symptoms can include:

  • Skin irritation
  • Itching
  • Redness

Week 3

A severe allergic reaction is rare but possible. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction can include:

  • Swelling underneath the skin, typically in the eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
  • Swelling of the tongue, mouth, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing

Contact your physician immediately if an allergic reaction to Contrave occurs, as the reaction could worsen. Contact 911 or your local emergency number if symptoms are life-threatening or if you believe you're experiencing a medical emergency.

two tablets

Contrave for weight loss and weight management

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves certain prescription drugs for specific conditions. Contrave is an FDA-approved weight loss drug intended for use in conjunction with a balanced diet and exercise for weight management. This drug works as an appetite suppressant and alleviates cravings.

If you're utilizing Contrave for weight loss, it should be in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise. Contrave is only FDA-approved for weight loss in individuals who either:

one tablet

  • Have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kilograms per square meter (kg/m) or higher, which indicates obesity, or
  • Have a BMI of 27 kg/m or higher, which is considered overweight, and have at least one weight-related ailment such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol

In addition, Contrave has the following limitations of use:

  • The impact of Contrave on the reduction of serious heart disease-related health issues is unknown.
  • It's unknown whether Contrave is safe or effective to use in combination with other weight-loss products.

Effectiveness for weight loss and weight management

Trials have found Contrave to be effective for weight management in conjunction with a balanced diet and exercise.

Three trials examined individuals with overweight or obesity. The individuals in these trials followed a balanced diet and increased their physical activity, with some also taking Contrave. After over a year, those who took the drug lost more weight compared to those who did not.

Week 4 and on

Individual results may vary when using Contrave for weight management. If you have any questions related to weight management and Contrave, discuss them with your physician.

Contrave and children

Contrave is not FDA-approved for use in children. The safety and effectiveness of Contrave have not been studied in individuals under 18 years of age. Contrave is not recommended for children.

two tablets

Contrave generic

Contrave is currently only available as a brand-name medication. A generic version of Contrave is not currently available.

Contrave contains two active drugs: naltrexone and bupropion.

two tablets

A generic drug is an exact replica of the active drug in a brand-name medication. Generics typically cost less than brand-name medications.

Contrave cost

The cost of Contrave can vary, like with all medications. The actual price you'll pay depends on your insurance plan, location, and the pharmacy you use.

Keep in mind that you may be able to obtain a 90-day supply of Contrave. If approved by your insurance company, obtaining a 90-day supply of the drug could reduce your number of trips to the pharmacy and help lower the cost. If interested in this option, consult your doctor or insurance company.

Before approving coverage for Contrave, your insurance company may require you to get prior authorization. This means that your doctor and insurance company will need to communicate about your prescription before the insurance company approves the drug's coverage. The insurance company will review the prior authorization request and decide whether the drug will be covered.

If unsure whether prior authorization is required for Contrave, contact your insurance company.

The following sections provide additional information on Contrave's cost. For more details on Contrave and cost, refer to this article.

Financial and insurance assistance

If you require financial aid to pay for Contrave, or if you need help understanding your insurance coverage, assistance might be available.

Currax Pharmaceuticals LLC, the manufacturer of Contrave, offers ways to save on its drug. Contrave may be less expensive if purchased through the manufacturer's CurAccess program. It may also cost less with a coupon, as described below.

To learn more about the manufacturer's program for Contrave's CurAccess, visit their website.

Discount for Contrave

Contrave

The manufacturer of Contrave provides a discount card to help reduce the cost of the medication. For additional information and to check if you're eligible to utilize this discount card, visit the manufacturer's website. Alternatively, you can contact them at 800-905-5576.

Mailing Pharmacies

It's possible to acquire Contrave through a mail-order pharmacy, which could potentially lower the medication's cost and permit you to receive it without leaving your home.

Saxenda

If suggested by your doctor, you might be able to receive a 90-day supply of Contrave, minimizing concerns regarding medication shortages. If you're interested in this option, consult with your doctor and your insurance provider. Some Medicare plans may cover mail-order medication expenses.

If you lack insurance, you can inquire about online pharmacy options with your doctor or pharmacist.

No Generic Version

Contrave is not currently available in a generic form. A generic drug replicates the active substance found in a brand-name medication, usually at a lower cost.

Contrave and Diet/Exercise

Contrave is FDA-approved for weight management in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Active drug(s)

In clinical trials, the drug was used in conjunction with a reduced calorie intake and increased physical activity. This combination proved to be more effective in assisting individuals in losing and managing weight compared to diet and exercise alone.

To learn more about obesity and weight management, see our dedicated hub for this topic. If you're interested in finding out if Contrave could be suitable for your weight management regimen, consult with your doctor.

Contrave Dosage

naltrexone/bupropion

The Contrave dosage prescribed by your doctor will depend upon various factors, such as the condition you're treating and any other medications you're taking. Generally, your doctor will start you on a low dosage and gradually increase it to reach the recommended daily dosage.

The following information provides common dosages: However, always adhere to the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

Drug Forms and Strengths

liraglutide

Contrave comes in the form of extended-release tablets, which means the medication is slowly released into your body for a prolonged period. Contrave is available in only one strength: 8 mg/90 mg, which contains 8 mg of Naltrexone and 90 mg of Bupropion.

Dosage for Weight Loss and Weight Management

Upon initiating Contrave treatment, your doctor will prescribe a low dosage. The dosage will gradually increase over time to reach the recommended daily dosage. After approximately 4 weeks, you will take two tablets in the morning and two tablets in the evening. This will be your dosage for the duration of the treatment.

The following is an example of the dosage schedule:

| | || --- | --- || Morning dose | Evening dose || Week 1 | one tablet | none || Week 2 | one tablet | one tablet || Week 3 | two tablets | one tablet || Week 4 and on | two tablets | two tablets |

What if I miss a dose?

Form

If you miss a Contrave dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed dose.

To help ensure you don't miss a Contrave dose, consider using a reminder. This can include setting an alarm or using a timer. You could also use a reminder app on your phone.

Will I need to take this drug long-term?

oral extended-release (ER) tablet*

Contrave is intended for long-term use. If you and your doctor determine that Contrave is safe and effective for you, you'll likely continue taking it long-term.

Common Questions about Contrave

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Contrave.

solution given as a subcutaneous injection

Why might Contrave not work for me?

Contrave may not be suitable for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) below a certain level. (BMI is an estimate of a person's body fat based on height and weight.)

Contrave is approved for use in individuals with obesity (BMI greater than or equal to 30) or overweight (BMI greater than or equal to 27). Those in the latter category must also have at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. If you don't meet these criteria, Contrave may not be effective for you.

Contrave is also intended to be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise. If you don't believe you'd be able to make the necessary dietary or physical activity changes, Contrave may not be suitable for you.

After 12 weeks of taking the recommended dosage (two tablets in the morning and two tablets in the evening), your doctor will evaluate your response to the medication. If you haven't lost at least 5% of your body weight, your doctor will advise you to stop taking the medication.

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Uses

Nah, it ain't like that. One of Contrave's active components, bupropion, is used in different medications to treat mood swings and help people give up smoking. But Contrave isn't authorized for these purposes.

If you're interested in learning more about using bupropion for depression or to quit smoking, chat with your doctor.

Do I need to follow a specific diet, like the ketogenic diet, while I'm on Contrave?

weight loss or weight management in adults when combined with a balanced diet and exercise†

There isn't a particular diet you have to follow while taking Contrave.

But you should avoid taking Contrave with a fat-rich meal. A high fat intake can allow your body to take in more of the active ingredients in Contrave, bupropion and naltrexone. This could potentially increase your risk of seizures.

During your treatment, it's important to consume fewer calories than you usually would before starting Contrave. You should also aim for a balanced diet.

weight loss or weight management in adults and some children when combined with a balanced diet and exercise‡

A balanced diet not only helps with weight loss but also improves your overall health and can decrease the risk of certain diseases. For more information about maintaining a balanced diet, check out this resource. You might also want to talk to your doctor or a dietitian about ways to make your diet more balanced.

What should I know about stopping Contrave?

When you want to stop treatment, your doctor will simply instruct you to stop taking Contrave. In clinical trials, people who stopped the medication at the end of the study didn't report any side effects.

But don't stop taking Contrave on your own. If Contrave isn't working for you and you want to stop taking it, talk to your doctor first.

Will Contrave make me feel ‘high’?

During the clinical trials of Contrave, there were no reports of people feeling “high” or developing a dependency on the drug. However, there haven't been many studies on Contrave's potential for misuse, tolerance, or dependency. (Misuse is using a drug in a different way than your doctor prescribes it. With dependency, your body needs the drug to feel normal.)

Long-term use

Naltrexone, one of Contrave's active ingredients, doesn't cause any physical or psychological dependency.

Bupropion is the other active ingredient in Contrave. In certain clinical trials, larger doses of bupropion have been reported to cause mild feelings of excitement. However, lower doses of this drug, as found in Contrave, likely won't cause feelings of being high.

If you have any concerns about how Contrave might affect you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

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How Contrave works

Contrave is used to help adults lose weight in conjunction with a balanced diet and exercise. It contains the active ingredients bupropion and naltrexone. This drug comes in the form of an extended-release tablet. (An extended-release form of a drug releases its active ingredients slowly over a longer period of time.)

Bupropion belongs to a class of drugs called aminoketone antidepressants. It's the only drug in this class. Aminoketone antidepressants work by affecting the activity of norepinephrine and dopamine. These two neurotransmitters (chemicals that help send messages in your brain) play a role in regulating mood.

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While it isn't completely clear how bupropion works, it likely prevents norepinephrine and dopamine from being taken back up into nerve cells in the brain. This can help maintain the levels of these chemicals in your brain, allowing your nerve cells to communicate better.

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist. This means it blocks certain receptors (docking stations) on your brain cells. When naltrexone blocks these receptors, it prevents dopamine from being released. The exact way that naltrexone works for weight loss isn't completely clear. It likely affects areas of the brain that tell you how much food to eat and how you feel after eating.

With these two active ingredients, Contrave can impact two areas of the brain that are linked to cravings and a desire to eat. Both naltrexone and bupropion can help reduce the pleasure you get from eating, which can help control cravings. Naltrexone and bupropion also work together to decrease your appetite.

How long does it take to work?

In clinical trials, most people experienced significant weight loss 4 weeks after starting treatment with Contrave. Results may vary from person to person.

Contrave vs. Saxenda

You might be wondering how Contrave stacks up against similar drugs, such as the brand-name prescription drug Saxenda. The following table provides an overview of these two drugs.

| | || --- | --- || Contrave | Saxenda || Active drug(s) | naltrexone/bupropion | liraglutide || Form | oral extended-release (ER) tablet* | solution given as a subcutaneous injection || Uses | weight loss or weight management in adults when combined with a balanced diet and exercise† | weight loss or weight management in adults and some children when combined with a balanced diet and exercise‡ || Long-term use | yes | yes |

The impacts of these medications can differ, although certain effects are alike. For example, both Contrave and Saxenda might enhance the chance of suicidal thoughts and actions. Notably, Contrave carries a label warning for this side effect. (Boxed warnings represent the most severe warning coming from the Food and Drug Administration [FDA].) Saxenda includes a boxed warning for a distinct side effect: an increased risk of thyroid cancer.

If you wish to acquire more specifics regarding Contrave's boxed warning, please see the "Contrave side effects" section provided earlier. Additional information about Saxenda's boxed warning is available in this article.

Serious adverse effects specific to Contrave comprise seizures and liver harm. Serious adverse effects unique to Saxenda include pancreatic inflammation and gallbladder problems.

For a comprehensive look at these medications' side effects, consult the prescribing information for both Contrave and Saxenda.

Contrave

To better comprehend the distinctions between Contrave and Saxenda, discuss your concerns with your medical professional or pharmacist.

Contrave vs. phentermine

You might question the comparability between Contrave and other drugs, such as the generic prescription drug phentermine. The following table offers a summary of these two drugs:

Phentermine

| | || --- | --- || Contrave | Phentermine || Active drugs | naltrexone/bupropion | phentermine || Forms | oral extended-release (ER) tablet | oral tablet, orally disintegrating tablet,† oral capsule || Uses | weight management in adults when combined with a balanced diet and exercise†† | weight loss or weight management in adults and some children when combined with a balanced diet and exercise§§ || Long-term use* | yes | no |

The adverse effects of these drugs differ, although some are identical. Critical adverse effects specific to Contrave entail seizures and liver injury. Critical adverse effects unique to phentermine incorporate heart valve issues and pulmonary hypertension (elevated blood pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs).

Additionally, Contrave holds a warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and actions. (Boxed warnings represent the most severe warning from the Food and Drug Administration [FDA].) Phentermine does not include a boxed warning. Consult the "Contrave side effects" section above for more details regarding Contrave's boxed warning.

To gain a deeper understanding of these drugs' side effects, explore the prescribing information for both Contrave and phentermine.

To learn more about the contrasts between Contrave and phentermine, consult your doctor or pharmacist. They can also provide information about the brand-name versions of phentermine, Adipex-P and Lomaira.

How to take Contrave

Active drug(s)

As prescribed by your medical professional or another healthcare professional, take Contrave.

Contrave is available as oral tablets, which should be swallowed. Upon commencing Contrave treatment, your doctor will instruct you to gradually increase your dosage according to a schedule. For details regarding this dosing schedule, refer to the "Contrave dosage" section above.

By your fourth week, your dosage should likely be two Contrave tablets taken twice daily. This dosage should be maintained until your doctor has you cease taking Contrave.

naltrexone/bupropion

When to take

Take Contrave twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.

To aid in remembering to take your Contrave doses, consider utilizing a medication reminder. This may involve setting an alarm or employing a timer. Additionally, you could install a reminder app on your phone.

phentermine

Consuming Contrave with food

You can take Contrave with or without eating. However, you should avoid consuming Contrave with a high-fat meal. Excess fat can enhance your body's exposure to more of the active ingredients in Contrave, bupropion and naltrexone. This may heighten your risk of side effects.

Can Contrave be crushed, split, or chewed?

No, you should not crumble, split, or chew Contrave tablets. They should be swallowed whole. If you struggle swallowing pills, please see this article for some tips.

If you still face issues ingesting your Contrave tablets, discuss your concerns with your doctor or pharmacist.

Contrave and alcohol

Form(s)

No interactions between Contrave and alcohol were reported in clinical trials.

Nevertheless, Contrave contains bupropion, which, when combined with alcohol, may induce changes in mood, thought, or behavior. Examples include agitation, depression, sleeping problems, and suicidal thoughts and actions. Additionally, bupropion can reduce alcohol tolerance, meaning you may be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol. As a result, reducing or avoiding alcohol while taking Contrave is recommended.

If you have any inquiries about consuming alcohol while taking Contrave, consult your doctor.

oral extended-release (ER) tablet*

If you have queries regarding drug interactions that could potentially impact you, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Generally, Contrave should not be combined with the following drugs:

  • MAOIs. When Contrave is used in conjunction with medications that increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), there's an increased risk of high blood pressure. If you're on MAOIs, your doctor will instruct you to discontinue their use for at least 14 days prior to starting Contrave. Examples of MAOIs include:
    • selegiline (Emsam, Zelapar)
    • phenelzine (Nardil)
    • isocarboxazid (Marplan)
  • Opioids. Contrave can weakly affect the effectiveness of opioid pain relievers. This may result in sudden opioid withdrawal. Additionally, it might prompt a person to ingest more than the suggested dosage of an opioid, resulting in dangerous opioid intoxication or overdose. If you use opioid pain relievers daily and plan to take Contrave, your doctor will instruct you to cease using opioids. Then you should wait for a period of at least 7 to 10 days before commencing Contrave treatment. Examples of opioids include:
    • oxycodone (Oxycontin, Roxicodone)
    • hydrocodone (Hysingla ER)
    • fentanyl (Actiq)
  • CYP2B6 inducers. This type of drug can cause a reduction in bupropion levels in the body when taken with Contrave, making Contrave less effective. Examples of CYP2B6 inducers include:
    • ritonavir (Norvir)
    • lopinavir
    • efavirenz

oral tablet, orally disintegrating tablet,† oral capsule

Drugs that can interact with Contrave include:

  • Drugs affected by the CYP2D6 enzyme, which helps the body metabolize various medications. Contrave can either increase or decrease the levels of these drugs in the body. Examples include:
    • metoprolol (Lopressor)
    • certain antidepressants, such as:
      • escitalopram (Lexapro)
      • fluoxetine (Prozac)
      • amitriptyline
    • certain antipsychotics, such as:
      • haloperidol
      • risperidone (Risperdal)
      • thioridazine
    • drugs prescribed to treat abnormal heart rhythm, such as:
      • propafenone (Rythmol SR)
      • flecainide
    • desipramine (Norpramin)
    • venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
  • Digoxin (Lanoxin). Contrave can decrease the amount of this drug in the body, potentially leading to insufficient dosage. If you're taking both Contrave and digoxin, your doctor will monitor your digoxin levels closely to ensure adequate intake.
  • CYP2B6 inhibitors. When taken with Contrave, CYP2B6 inhibitors can result in increased bupropion levels in the body, potentially leading to more side effects. Examples include:
    • ticlopidine
    • clopidogrel (Plavix)
  • Drugs that can increase your risk of a *seizure*. Contrave could potentially increase the risk of seizures. The risk of seizures may be further increased when taken with the following drugs:
    • antipsychotics, such as:
      • aripiprazole (Abilify)
      • haloperidol
      • clozapine (Clozaril)
    • antidepressants, such as:
      • escitalopram (Lexapro)
      • fluoxetine (Prozac)
      • duloxetine (Cymbalta)
    • theophylline
    • *corticosteroids, such as *prednisone (Rayos)
  • Dopaminergic drugs. Taking Contrave with these drugs could cause central nervous system (CNS) toxicity. This occurs when the CNS works less effectively, which can result in decreased alertness, restlessness or agitation, tremors (shaking), trouble walking, or dizziness. When taken with Contrave, the following drugs can cause CNS toxicity:
    • levodopa (Inbrija)
    • amantadine (Gocovri)

Contrave and herbs and supplements

No herbs or supplements have been specifically reported to interact with Contrave. However, it's always advisable to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any of these products while on Contrave.

Contrave and foods

If you choose to take Contrave with meals, take note to avoid consuming high-fat meals with this medication. Consuming Contrave with high-fat meals raises the drug's levels in your body, potentially leading to increased side effects.

Uses

Contrave and lab tests

Bupropion, a component of Contrave, may cause false-positive results in urine tests for amphetamines. These false-positive results can occur even after discontinuing Contrave treatment. More specific tests can be administered to prevent a false positive.

Contrave and pregnancy

weight loss or weight management in adults when combined with a balanced diet and exercise‡

Please consult with your doctor if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant before starting Contrave.

It's not advisable to consume Contrave during pregnancy. Contrave hasn't been reported to negatively affect fetal development, miscarriage, or other pregnancy-related issues, but losing weight during pregnancy can harm the fetus. Therefore, pregnancy weight loss is not suggested.

If you get pregnant while taking Contrave, your doctor is likely to advise discontinuing this medication.

weight loss or weight management in adults and some children when combined with a balanced diet and exercise§

Contrave and contraception

It's not recommended to use Contrave during pregnancy. If you're sexually active and at risk of getting pregnant, discuss your contraceptive needs with your doctor while using Contrave.

For more details about using Contrave during pregnancy, refer to the "Contrave and pregnancy" section above.

Contrave and breastfeeding

Contrave's active components, bupropion, and naltrexone, might pass into breast milk and potentially harm an infant. As a consequence, breastfeeding whilst using Contrave is not recommended.

If you're breastfeeding or intend to breastfeed, consult your doctor. They can recommend alternative treatments for your condition.

Long-term use

Contrave precautions

This medication carries several warnings.

FDA alert: Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors

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Contrave has a boxed warning, the most serious caution from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This warning alerts doctors and patients about potentially harmful drug effects.

In individuals with depression or other mental health disorders, antidepressants such as bupropion may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Bupropion is one of Contrave's active ingredients.

This risk is higher in children, teenagers, and young adults (up to 24 years old), particularly during the first few months of treatment or when the dose is modified.

no

While using Contrave, pay close attention to any unusual changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Inform loved ones, caregivers, and healthcare professionals about such changes.

For more information on this boxed warning, see "Side effect details" in the "Contrave side effects" section above.

Other precautions

Before taking Contrave, disclose your health history to your doctor. Contrave may not be suitable for you if you have certain medical conditions or other health factors. These include:

  • Smoking cessation aid. Contrave isn't approved to aid in smoking cessation. However, bupropion, one of Contrave's active ingredients, is used for this purpose and can lead to serious mental health problems, including depression, psychosis, hallucinations, aggression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. If you experience such symptoms or other behavioral changes while using Contrave, stop taking it and contact a healthcare professional immediately.
  • Manic episode activation. Contrave contains bupropion, which is often used to treat depression. Antidepressants can sometimes cause people to experience a manic, mixed, or hypomanic episode. This risk increases in people with bipolar disorder. If you have bipolar disorder, discuss this with your doctor before starting Contrave treatment.
  • Seizures. Bupropion, an active ingredient in Contrave, can cause seizures. The risk of seizures increases with higher doses of bupropion and is higher for individuals already susceptible to seizures, such as those with seizure disorders. If you have a seizure disorder, inform your doctor before starting Contrave. Also, discuss with your doctor if you have or have had anorexia or bulimia, or are abruptly stopping alcohol or certain medications.
  • Low blood sugar. In people with type 2 diabetes, weight loss can increase the risk of low blood sugar when using insulin or drugs that help with insulin production. Examples include glyburide (Diabeta), glipizide (Glucotrol XL), and glimepiride (Amaryl). If you have type 2 diabetes and are taking Contrave, regularly measure your blood glucose levels before and during treatment. Your doctor may adjust the dose of your diabetes medication to prevent low blood sugar.
  • Untreated high blood pressure or heart disease/stroke history. Contrave can increase blood pressure and heart rate. The impact on individuals with a history of heart disease or stroke is unknown. As a result, doctors typically will not prescribe Contrave to individuals with untreated high blood pressure. If you have untreated high blood pressure or a history of heart disease or stroke, inform your doctor. They can help determine if Contrave is the right treatment option for you.
  • Allergic reaction. If you've had an allergic reaction to Contrave or any of its ingredients, consult your doctor. They may recommend alternative medications.
  • Pregnancy. It is not advisable to use Contrave during pregnancy. For more information, see the "Contrave and pregnancy" section above.
  • Breastfeeding. It is not advisable to use Contrave during breastfeeding. For more information, see the "Contrave and breastfeeding" section above.

Note: For more information on the potential negative effects of Contrave, see the "Contrave side effects" section above.

Exceeding the prescription limit of Contrave can result in severe side effects. Steer clear of consuming more Contrave than your doctor advises.

Overdose indications

Indications of an overdose might include:

  • seizures
  • hallucinatory experiences
  • loss of consciousness
  • muscle spasms or twitches
  • irregular heart rhythm

What to do in case of an overdose

In case you suspect you've overconsumed this drug, contact your doctor immediately. Additionally, you can reach out to the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. However, if your symptoms are severe, dial 911 or your local emergency number, or rush to the nearest emergency room instantly.

Contrave expiration, storage, and disposal

Upon procuring Contrave from the pharmacy, the pharmacist will affix an expiration date to the label on the bottle. This date is usually 1 year from the date the medication was dispensed.

The expiration date guarantees the medication's effectiveness throughout this period. The FDA's recommendation is to avoid using expired medications. If you have unused medication that has surpassed the expiration date, consult your pharmacist about the possibility of still using it.

Storage

A medication's effectiveness can be affected by various factors, including storage conditions.

Contrave tablets should be stored at a room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) in a tightly sealed container away from light. Avoid storing this medication in areas where it could get damp or wet, such as bathrooms.

Disposal

Disposal of unused Contrave is essential to prevent accidental use by others, including children and pets. It also helps protect the environment from drug contamination.

This article offers valuable tips on medication disposal. You can also seek advice from your pharmacist on how to dispose of your medication.

Disclaimer:Medical News Today has gone to great lengths to ensure that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up-to-date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional's knowledge and expertise. Always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

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