Contrave is a prescription weight loss medication that combines two active ingredients: bupropion and naltrexone. It functions by targeting areas of the brain that regulate hunger and cravings, helping individuals with obesity or overweight conditions lose weight when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
However, like any medication, Contrave side effects can occur. While many people tolerate it well, some may experience mild to moderate adverse effects, especially during the initial weeks of treatment. Understanding what to expect, how long they last, and how to manage them can help you stay on track with your weight loss goals.
Common Side Effects of Contrave
Most side effects of Contrave are mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication. These include:
Nausea
One of the most reported side effects is nausea, which occurs due to naltrexone’s effect on the brain’s opioid system. This side effect is more common when you first start the medication or when increasing the Contrave dosage.
How to Manage:
- Take Contrave with food to reduce nausea.
- Start with a low dose and gradually increase it as prescribed.
- If nausea persists, talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosage.
Headache and Dizziness
Some users experience headaches and dizziness, especially in the early days of taking Contrave. This may be due to dehydration or changes in brain chemistry caused by bupropion.
How to Manage:
- Stay well-hydrated throughout the day.
- Avoid alcohol, which can worsen dizziness.
- Ensure you’re getting enough rest, as fatigue can contribute to headaches.
Insomnia
Since Contrave contains bupropion, a stimulant-like medication, it can cause difficulty sleeping or insomnia. This often happens if the second dose is taken too late in the day.
How to Manage:
- Take the morning dose as early as possible.
- Avoid taking the second dose too late in the day (afternoon is best).
- Limit caffeine intake, as it can increase alertness and worsen insomnia.
Dry Mouth
A common side effect of many weight loss medications, dry mouth can be uncomfortable and lead to increased thirst.
How to Manage:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies to stimulate saliva.
- Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, as they can make dry mouth worse.
Constipation or Diarrhea
Digestive changes, including constipation or diarrhea, can occur when starting Contrave. This is due to how the medication affects neurotransmitters involved in digestion.
How to Manage:
- Increase fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to regulate digestion.
- Stay hydrated to prevent constipation.
- If diarrhea occurs, eat bland foods (rice, bananas, toast) and avoid spicy or fatty meals.
Serious Side Effects and When to Seek Medical Help
While most side effects of Contrave are mild, some individuals may experience more serious reactions. These require immediate medical attention.
Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
Contrave can cause a slight increase in blood pressure and heart rate, which may be a concern for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
Signs to Watch For:
- Rapid heart rate (palpitations).
- Severe headaches or dizziness.
- Shortness of breath.
Mental Health Changes (Anxiety, Mood Swings, Depression)
Since bupropion affects brain chemistry, some users may experience mood swings, increased anxiety, or even depression.
Signs to Watch For:
- Sudden mood changes, irritability, or aggression.
- Worsening depression or thoughts of self-harm.
- Panic attacks or severe anxiety.
Seizures (Rare but Serious)
Bupropion can lower the seizure threshold, meaning that individuals with a history of seizures or certain medical conditions may be at increased risk.
Risk Factors:
- Taking Contrave with alcohol.
- History of epilepsy or eating disorders.
- Using high doses too quickly.
If you experience a seizure, stop taking Contrave immediately and seek medical attention.
How Long Do Contrave Side Effects Last?
While many of these effects are temporary, the duration and intensity can vary from person to person. Understanding how long side effects last and when to seek medical advice can help you manage your treatment more effectively.
Short-Term Side Effects
- Most mild side effects, such as nausea, headaches, and insomnia, occur within the first few weeks of starting Contrave.
- These usually improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
Long-Term Side Effects
- Some persistent side effects (e.g., dry mouth or constipation) may last longer but are usually manageable.
- If side effects do not improve after four to six weeks, talk to your doctor about possible adjustments.
Tips for Managing Contrave Side Effects
By following a few simple strategies, you can minimize side reactions and give your body time to adjust to the medication. These tips will help you stay on track with your treatment plan while maintaining your overall well-being.
Start with a Lower Dose
Contrave dosage starts low and gradually increases over four weeks to minimize side effects. The standard schedule is:
- Week 1: One tablet in the morning.
- Week 2: One tablet in the morning, one in the evening.
- Week 3: Two tablets in the morning, one in the evening.
- Week 4 and Beyond: Two tablets in the morning and two in the evening.
Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet
Dehydration and nutrient imbalances can worsen nausea, headaches, and constipation. Make sure to:
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
- Eat fiber-rich foods to improve digestion.
- Avoid fatty, greasy foods that can worsen nausea.
Follow a Consistent Routine
Taking Contrave at the same time every day helps regulate its effects and reduces side effects like nausea and dizziness.
Takeaways
While Contrave side effects can be uncomfortable, they are usually mild and temporary. Common side effects encompass nausea, headaches, dry mouth, and insomnia, which often improve over time. More serious effects, like high blood pressure or mood changes, require medical attention.
Following the recommended Contrave dosage, staying hydrated, and adjusting your routine can help minimize discomfort. If side effects persist beyond four to six weeks, talk to your doctor about possible adjustments or alternative treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do Contrave side effects last?
Most side effects improve within 2–4 weeks as your body adjusts. However, if symptoms persist beyond six weeks, consult your doctor.
Do side effects of Contrave go away?
Yes, for most people. Side effects like nausea, dizziness, and dry mouth typically decrease over time. Persistent symptoms may require dosage adjustments or alternative treatments.
Can I stop Contrave if the side effects are too strong?
Do not stop Contrave abruptly without consulting your doctor. Instead, gradual dose reduction may be needed to minimize withdrawal effects.
