Losing weight is a challenge that many people face. While diet and exercise are the foundation of healthy weight management, some individuals need additional medical support to achieve their weight loss goals. Prescription weight loss medications like Xenical (orlistat) and Contrave (bupropion/naltrexone) are commonly prescribed to help people struggling with obesity or overweight conditions.
But when it comes to Xenical vs Contrave, which is more effective? Each medication works differently, has distinct benefits, and may be better suited for different individuals. This article will explore how Xenical and Contrave work and their dosages, benefits, and key differences to help you decide which medication is proper for your weight loss journey.
How Xenical Works
Xenical (orlistat) is an FDA-approved weight loss medication that blocks fat absorption in the digestive system. It is classified as a lipase inhibitor, which prevents enzymes in the intestines from breaking down dietary fat, reducing the number of calories the body absorbs.
Since Xenical does not suppress appetite, it is best suited for individuals who consume a high-fat diet and struggle with fat intake rather than those who struggle with food cravings or overeating.
Xenical Dosage
The standard Xenical dosage is 120 mg, taken three times daily with meals that contain fat. The medication can be skipped if a meal includes trim to no fat.
How Contrave Works
Contrave is a combination of two medications: bupropion and naltrexone. It works in two ways to promote weight loss:
- Bupropion (commonly used for depression and smoking cessation) helps regulate dopamine and norepinephrine, reducing hunger and increasing energy levels.
- Naltrexone (commonly used for opioid addiction treatment) modifies the brain’s reward system, reducing food cravings and emotional eating.
Since Contrave reduces appetite and cravings, it is more effective for people who struggle with emotional eating, food addiction or binge eating tendencies.
Contrave Dosage
The Contrave dosage is gradually increased over four weeks to reduce side effects. The recommended dose is two pills in the morning and two in the evening (totaling 32 mg of naltrexone and 360 mg of bupropion daily).
Xenical vs Contrave: Key Differences
How They Work
- Xenical blocks fat absorption, reducing calorie intake from fats.
- Contrave suppresses appetite and cravings, making it easier to control portions and avoid overeating.
Best for:
- Xenical is best for individuals who consume a high-fat diet and need help reducing fat intake.
- Contrave is ideal for people who struggle with food cravings, binge eating, or emotional eating habits.
Weight Loss Effectiveness
Xenical and Contrave have been shown to support weight loss, but their effectiveness varies.
- Xenical users lose an average of 5-10% of their body weight over 6-12 months when combined with a low-fat diet and exercise.
- Contrave users typically lose 5-12% of their body weight over a similar period, especially if they struggle with emotional eating or appetite control.
Contrave may lead to more significant overall weight loss for people who tend to overeat, while Xenical is more effective for those looking to reduce fat absorption from their diet.
Side Effects
Both medications have different side effect profiles due to how they work.
Xenical Side Effects:
Since Xenical prevents fat absorption, undigested fats are excreted in stool, leading to gastrointestinal side effects such as:
- Oily stools
- Gas with discharge
- Frequent bowel movements
- Possible vitamin deficiencies (A, D, E, K)
Taking Xenical with a low-fat diet can minimize these effects.
Contrave Side Effects:
Contrave affects the brain’s neurotransmitters, leading to potential neurological and digestive side effects such as:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Increased blood pressure
Because Contrave contains bupropion, it should not be used by individuals with a history of seizures, eating disorders, or uncontrolled high blood pressure.
Which One Is Better?
The choice between Contrave vs Xenical depends on personal weight loss needs:
- If you have a high-fat diet and struggle with portion control, Xenical may be the better option.
- If you battle constant hunger, food cravings, or emotional eating, Contrave may work best.
Ultimately, both medications require lifestyle changes (such as diet and exercise) to achieve the best weight loss results.
Conclusion
When comparing Contrave and Xenical, both medications offer unique benefits for weight loss but work in very different ways. Xenical helps reduce calorie absorption by blocking dietary fat, while Contrave focuses on appetite suppression and craving control. Xenical is an excellent option for individuals needing help with portion control and fat intake. For those who struggle with emotional eating and cravings, Contrave is often more effective.
Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine which weight loss medication aligns best with your health status and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I take Xenical and Contrave together?
No, Xenical and Contrave should not be taken together unless prescribed by a doctor. They work differently, and combining them does not enhance weight loss results.
Which medication causes more weight loss, Contrave or Xenical?
Contrave generally leads to more significant weight loss because it reduces appetite and cravings, making it easier to control overall calorie intake. Xenical is effective for high-fat diets but may lead to slower weight loss than Contrave.
How long does it take to see results with Xenical or Contrave?
Most people start seeing weight loss within 4-8 weeks of starting either medication. However, optimal results take 3-6 months, depending on diet, exercise, and treatment adherence.
Does insurance cover Xenical or Contrave?
Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. Some insurance providers cover Xenical or Contrave with prior authorization, while others may require alternative treatments first.
