Description
What is Contrave?
Contrave® is a prescription weight loss medication that combines two active ingredients — bupropion and naltrexone — into one daily oral tablet. Unlike traditional appetite suppressants that target hunger alone, Contrave works on both the hunger centers and the reward system of the brain. This unique dual-action mechanism helps patients reduce cravings, emotional eating, and food addiction patterns that often derail weight loss efforts.
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Bupropion is an antidepressant that increases levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that regulate mood and reduce the brain’s signals for cravings.
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Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist typically used in addiction treatment. In the context of weight management, it helps reduce the “reward” response linked to eating high-calorie foods.
When combined, these ingredients provide a comprehensive approach to weight loss, addressing not only physical hunger but also the emotional and psychological drivers of overeating. Contrave is FDA-approved in the United States and marketed in Europe under the brand name Mysimba®, approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
Key Benefits of Contrave
Contrave offers several benefits that set it apart from other weight loss medications:
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✅ Suppresses appetite and reduces hunger – helping patients consume fewer calories without feeling constantly deprived.
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✅ Targets reward-driven/emotional eating – ideal for those who struggle with cravings for sweets, fast food, or late-night snacks.
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✅ Breaks food addiction patterns – helping to retrain the brain’s response to food cues.
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✅ Once-daily convenience – simple oral dosing makes it easy to incorporate into a routine.
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✅ Clinically proven and regulator-approved – backed by studies and licensed in both the US (Contrave®) and EU (Mysimba®).
These combined benefits make Contrave particularly effective for long-term lifestyle changes, rather than just short bursts of weight loss.
Who Is Contrave For?
Contrave is suitable for adults struggling with obesity or being overweight with additional health risks. Doctors may prescribe it for patients who meet these criteria:
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BMI ≥ 30 (obese)
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BMI ≥ 27 (overweight) with at least one associated condition such as:
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Type 2 diabetes
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Hypertension (high blood pressure)
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High cholesterol
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Obstructive sleep apnea
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Weight-related metabolic disorders
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✔️ Contrave is especially helpful for patients who struggle with cravings, emotional eating, or compulsive snacking, which are often overlooked in standard diet programs.
Who Should NOT Take Contrave
Like all medications, Contrave isn’t suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for:
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Pregnant or breastfeeding women
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Individuals with a history of seizures or epilepsy
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Patients with uncontrolled hypertension
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Those taking opioid medications or MAO inhibitors
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Anyone with a history of bulimia or anorexia nervosa
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Patients with serious psychiatric conditions without medical supervision
Because bupropion carries a seizure risk, patients must be carefully screened before starting treatment. Always follow a prescriber’s medical advice and provide a full health history.
How Contrave Works in the Body
Contrave’s unique dual mechanism addresses both sides of the weight management challenge:
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Bupropion works by stimulating dopamine and norepinephrine, reducing food cravings, improving energy, and boosting mood. Many patients find that they no longer feel the same drive to overeat or snack compulsively.
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Naltrexone blocks the opioid receptors that reinforce the brain’s “pleasure” response from food. This means eating high-calorie or sugary foods feels less rewarding, making it easier to stick to healthier choices.
Together, this creates a powerful synergy that not only helps reduce hunger but also retrains the brain’s connection between food and reward — a key factor in achieving long-term weight control.
Dosage & Titration Schedule
Contrave must be introduced gradually to minimize side effects and allow the body to adapt. The standard titration schedule is as follows:
| Week | Dosage |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | 1 tablet in the morning |
| Week 2 | 1 tablet in the morning + 1 tablet in the evening |
| Week 3 | 2 tablets in the morning + 1 tablet in the evening |
| Week 4+ | 2 tablets in the morning + 2 tablets in the evening (maximum daily dose) |
💡 Tips:
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Always take Contrave with food, but avoid high-fat meals which may increase the risk of side effects.
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Never exceed 4 tablets per day.
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Your prescriber may adjust dosing depending on tolerance and response.
What’s Included in a Typical Prescription
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112 tablets (28-day supply at full dose)
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Online or in-person consultation with a licensed prescriber
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Titration and usage guide
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Option to join a monthly refill program for convenience
Sample Pricing (UK, if sourced as Mysimba®)
| Pack Size | Price (GBP) |
|---|---|
| 14-day starter pack | £89.00 |
| 28-day full-dose pack (112 tablets) | £149.00 |
| 3-month supply | £399.00 |
⚠️ Prices vary depending on supply chain, import costs, and whether the product is sourced as Contrave® (US) or Mysimba® (EU).
Possible Side Effects
Contrave is generally well tolerated, but side effects can occur, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.
Common side effects:
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Nausea or upset stomach
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Headache
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Constipation or dry mouth
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Insomnia or restlessness
Rare but serious side effects:
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Seizures (dose-related risk)
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Mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts
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Allergic reactions
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Significant rise in blood pressure
Patients should be monitored regularly, especially if they have a history of mental health conditions or hypertension.
Storage Instructions
To maintain effectiveness, Contrave should be stored carefully:
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Store below 25°C in a dry place
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Keep in the original packaging to protect from light and moisture
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Keep out of reach of children and pets
Legal & Regulatory Information
Contrave is a Prescription-Only Medicine (POM).
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In the United States, Contrave is FDA-approved for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with risk factors.
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In the UK, Contrave is not licensed under that brand name but may be prescribed as Mysimba® under special order by registered prescribers.
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Patients must undergo a full medical consultation and may require ongoing follow-ups during treatment.
Why Choose a Professional Prescriber Service?
Obtaining Contrave through a trusted clinic ensures safety, compliance, and medical oversight. Professional services often provide:
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✅ UK-Registered Prescribers with experience in weight management
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✅ Fast, discreet delivery within the UK (when compliant with regulations)
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✅ Personalized guidance and lifestyle support alongside the medication
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✅ Ongoing consultations and repeat prescriptions for long-term care
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✅ Peace of mind that you’re taking Contrave safely and legally
Final Thoughts
Contrave (Mysimba®) represents a modern, holistic approach to weight management, addressing both the biological and psychological factors behind overeating. By targeting appetite control and food cravings simultaneously, it offers patients a sustainable way to lose weight and improve long-term health.
While it is not suitable for everyone and must be taken under medical supervision, Contrave can be a life-changing treatment for those who have struggled with traditional weight loss methods. When combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and professional support, Contrave provides a safe and effective pathway toward a healthier, more confident lifestyle.







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