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How Does Contrave Work?

Contrave is an anorexiant and contains a combination of the medications bupropion and naltrexone. Bupropion is primarily an antidepressant medication that can also suppress the appetite. Naltrexone is typically prescribed to block the effects of alcohol or opioids in people dealing with addiction, but it can also reduce hunger and food cravings. These two medications work together in Contrave to reduce appetite and help people reduce their caloric intake.

How Much Weight Can You Lose With Contrave?

In clinical studies, individuals taking Contrave were able to lose between 5% and 15% of their total body weight. On average, patients taking Contrave for 56 weeks have been able to lose around 17 lbs.

How Soon Can I Expect to Lose Weight?

When combined with a healthy diet and consistent exercise, you can usually expect to start losing weight with Contrave after approximately four weeks.

How Often Is Contrave Taken?

Typically, Contrave tablets are prescribed to be taken twice daily with a low-fat meal. However, you should always follow your doctor’s instructions for how often to take the medication.

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How Do I Take Contrave?

Contrave comes in tablet form and should be taken orally. It’s important that you swallow the tablet whole rather than crushing, chewing, or breaking it. It’s also important that you do not take Contrave with a high-fat meal, as doing so could increase the likelihood of seizure. You should never take more than two Contrave tablets at one time. Contrave should be stored at room temperature and kept away from moisture and heat.

Is Contrave Safe?

As long as you follow your doctor’s direction and use the medication properly, Contrave is generally considered safe. Contrave is an FDA-approved medication for weight loss. However, you should not take Contrave in NYC, Long Island, & New Jersey  if you:

  • Are allergic to bupropion or naltrexone
  • Have untreated high blood pressure
  • Have an eating disorder
  • Have a history of seizures
  • Have an addiction to opioids

Risks and Side Effects of Contrave

Contrave has been shown to cause the following side effects in some patients:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Insomnia

In rare cases, Contrave can also cause more serious side effects. You should contact your doctor right away if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe headache
  • Blurred vision
  • Pounding heartbeat
  • Seizure
  • Tunnel vision
  • Eye pain or swelling
  • Unusual changes in mood or behavior
  • Manic episode
  • Severe skin reaction

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Note: A BMI of 30 – 34.9 or BMI 35 – 39.9 with no comorbidities qualify for lap band but is usually not covered by insurance.

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