Naltrexone and bupropion (Contrave®): Basic Information

Contrave® is a combination of naltrexone, an opioid antagonist, and bupropion, an antidepressant. Here is basic information about this medication.

FDA-approved indications

As an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adults with an initial body mass index (BMI) of:

30 kg/m² or greater (obese)
27 kg/m² or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbidity such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or dyslipidemia.

Limitations of use

Effect of Contrave® on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been established

Safety and efficacy of Contrave® with other weight loss products including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal preparations have not been established.

Dosage

Week 1: One tablet 8 mg/90 mg (naltrexone/bupropion) in the morning (8 mg/90 mg per day)

Week 2: One tablet in the morning and one in the evening (16 mg/180 mg per day)

Week 3: Two tablets in the morning and one in the evening (24 mg/270 mg per day)

Week 4 onward: Two tablets in the morning and two in the evening (32 mg/360 mg per day)

Discontinue treatment if a patient has not lost at least 5% of body weight after 12 weeks of maintenance dosage.

Special cases

Renal impairment

Moderate or severe renal impairment: Maximum recommended dosage is two tablets daily (one in the morning and one in the evening)

End-stage renal disease: Not recommended

Hepatic impairment

Maximum recommended dosage is one tablet in the morning daily

Administration instructions

The tablets should not be cut, chewed, or crushed.

Should not be taken with high fat meals.

Dosage forms and strengths

Extended-release tablets: 8 mg naltrexone and 90 mg bupropion (8 mg/90 mg)

Please refer to Prescribing Information (see link below) for complete discussion of dosage, administration, warnings and precautions, contraindications, etc.

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References

Prescribing Information for naltrexone and bupropion (Contrave®)

Disclaimer: The material on this website is provided as general education for medical professionals. It is not intended for patients or other laypersons, nor is it a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients must always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding their diagnosis and treatment. Healthcare professionals should always check this website for the most up-to-date information.