Losing weight can present a significant challenge for many individuals, often requiring a combination of dietary changes, exercise, and sometimes medical intervention. One form of medical assistance is Contrave, a prescription medication that has shown promise in aiding certain adults in achieving their weight loss goals.
In this blog, we will explore what contrave is, how it works, the timeline for results, and methods to access necessary support during weight loss efforts.
What is Contrave?
Contrave is a prescribed drug made to help overweight or obese adults with weight-related health issues such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol in their efforts to lose weight. Naltrexone and bupropion are combined in the medication, each playing specific roles in its effectiveness.
Given orally via tablets, the dosage is raised slowly during the first three weeks of therapy until it reaches the regular dose. Usually, the suggested maintenance dose involves taking two tablets twice a day, but this may vary depending on the patient.
Although Contrave may work well, it’s important to understand that it needs to be combined with a lower-calorie diet and more exercise. Possible adverse reactions could involve feelings of nausea, constipation, and headaches. More uncommon yet more serious risks could include unusual alterations in behavior, fluctuations in mood, or thoughts of suicide, highlighting the importance of staying in communication with a healthcare professional while using it.
How Does Contrave Work?
Contrave works by combining two medications: naltrexone and bupropion. Naltrexone, an opioid antagonist, is primarily used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence by blocking the effects of opioids, which helps reduce cravings and addictive behaviors. Bupropion, a dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is commonly used as an antidepressant and smoking cessation aid; it increases levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, improving mood and reducing appetite. While the exact mechanism of how these medications work together to promote weight loss is not fully understood, they are believed to target brain areas related to appetite control and the reward system, helping manage food cravings and decrease overall food consumption.
How Long Does It Take for Contrave to Work?
The amount of time it takes to see weight loss results with Contrave may differ from person to person. Clinical research has indicated that certain individuals may experience weight loss after four weeks of beginning the medication. The biggest weight loss typically happens following a few months of consistent usage.
Remember that these outcomes are usually seen when combined with a low-calorie diet and consistent physical activity while using Contrave. The rate at which individuals lose weight can differ significantly, emphasizing the importance of attending scheduled check-ups with your healthcare provider. These check-ups enable tracking your advancement, modifications to your therapy plan as needed, and conversations regarding any potential side effects or worries.
Get the Help You Need on Your Weight Loss Journey
Pause Pain & Wellness is here to offer support and guidance to help you achieve your weight loss goals. With clinics located in various cities across Mississippi and Alabama, we provide personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Contact us at 833-940-5060 to schedule an appointment. Our team is ready to work with you to create a customized plan that fits your needs and helps you reach your weight loss objectives.