Antiobesity drugs may seem like the latest trend in medicine. But they’re not exactly new. Scientists have long searched for ways to treat obesity by targeting the brain, metabolism, digestion, and appetite. Contrave, a mix of naltrexone hydrochloride and bupropion hydrochloride, is an antiobesity drug that works on the brain. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Contrave over 10 years ago after it proved to be safe and effective for some people with obesity.

“Still on the Contrave diet pill,” shared a MyObesityTeam member. “I was skeptical at first, but Contrave is really working for me,” wrote another.

If you’re curious about weight-loss medication, you’re not alone. Lots of people wonder if antiobesity drugs could help them. “I’m thinking about asking my doctor to prescribe Contrave to me since my insurance covers it now,” said a MyObesityTeam member.

Here’s what you should know before adding Contrave to your obesity management plan.

How Does Contrave Work?

Contrave is a combination of two drugs, naltrexone and bupropion. Naltrexone is a medication that doctors prescribe to people who have alcohol use disorder or are dependent on opioids. The other active ingredient in Contrave, bupropion, is used to treat depression and seasonal affective disorder. It also helps people quit smoking.

Experts don’t entirely understand how Contrave helps with weight loss, but they think the two medicines work together in the brain to help people feel full, eat less, and burn more energy.

Early studies found that combining naltrexone and bupropion caused mice to eat less. However, humans are a little more complicated than mice. The cause of obesity in humans isn’t the same for everyone.

Some members of MyObesityTeam have had success with Contrave, but others haven’t. “I started Contrave in November, and it helped me lose weight, along with my diet and exercise,” said one member. “I discussed Contrave with my doctor. This is my third week of being on it. I have lost a few pounds and didn’t really do much. I am not craving sweets like I did, so it is helping,” said another.

“Contrave did nothing for me. I had no weight loss, so the doctor didn’t give me any more,” shared another member.

If Contrave doesn’t lead to a weight loss of at least 5 percent after taking it for 12 weeks, research shows it is not likely to be effective for you.

Contrave Weight Loss in Clinical Trials

Researchers did four major studies on Contrave before it was approved for obesity treatment. These studies lasted for 56 weeks each and included 4,536 participants with obesity who were given Contrave or placebo (an inactive treatment). Both groups also followed a weight-loss diet, behavioral counseling, and an exercise program during the studies.

Each of the four trials showed greater weight loss for people taking Contrave versus the placebo groups. Over the course of one year, people taking Contrave lost two to four times more weight than those on placebo. Half of the people who used Contrave reduced their weight by at least 5 percent and successfully kept it off. This rate was more than double what was seen in people who lost weight with lifestyle changes alone.

Who Is Contrave Meant For?

You may be prescribed Contrave if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. People with a BMI of 27 or higher may also go on Contrave if they have at least one weight-related health condition, like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.

Contrave is a prescription drug. It can only be taken under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. It’s designed as a tool that works along with a reduced-calorie diet and physical activity program.

Who Shouldn’t Take Contrave?

Like all medications, Contrave isn’t meant for everyone. In general, weight-loss drugs like Contrave shouldn’t be prescribed for people with a history of certain eating disorders, like anorexia or bulimia. If you have depression or a dependence on alcohol or drugs, Contrave may not be the best treatment option for you.

Contrave also isn’t good for people with seizure disorders or severe liver or kidney disease. The risk of seizures is higher if the medication is taken with a high-fat meal. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have uncontrolled blood pressure, you should wait before considering Contrave. Contrave isn’t proven safe during pregnancy or lactation. Getting blood pressure problems under control before starting Contrave will help you stay safe while taking the medication.

Possible Side Effects of Contrave

Even if your doctor decides that Contrave is safe for you to use, you still may have side effects. Here are some of the common side effects of Contrave:

• Nausea
• Constipation
• Headaches
• Sleep disturbances
• Vomiting

There’s also a wide range of less common possible side effects, like heart problems, hair loss, hot flashes, sweating, and ringing in the ears.

MyObesityTeam members have shared their experiences with Contrave side effects. “It helped with the cravings, but I got very constipated on it. Once, I went for a week with severe cramps. I lost some weight, but as soon as I stopped taking it, I realized I needed to get more. I haven’t lost any more weight the second time around,” she said.

Another member wrote, “It helps curb my appetite. Also, my servings have gotten smaller. I have lost weight, but it is slow. I like this drug. There are hardly any side effects. I’m a little more thirsty and have a minor bad taste in my mouth.”

It’s important to follow your doctor’s medical advice when taking your medication. Be sure to let your healthcare provider know if you have these or other side effects.

Risk of Suicidal Thoughts

One of the most serious side effects of Contrave is the risk of suicidal thoughts. This possible side effect is related to bupropion and mainly applies to people under age 65. Being aware of this risk can help you tune into any mood changes that you develop while taking Contrave. Discussing suicidal thoughts or depression with a healthcare professional right away can help keep you safe.

If you or someone you know needs help, you can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or chatting online.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyObesityTeam is the social network for people with obesity and their loved ones. On MyObesityTeam, more than 57,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with obesity.

Have you tried Contrave or any other weight-loss medication? If so, how was your experience? Share your story in the comments below or on your Activities page.