Introduction

While Glucagon-like peptide-1 (“GLP-1”) medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro dominate the weight loss space, Contrave offers a non-GLP-1 oral alternative that’s FDA-approved for chronic weight management. It works on the central nervous system, targeting hunger and cravings through a dual mechanism involving naltrexone and bupropion.

Contrave may be a compelling option for those looking to avoid injectable medications or who have had difficulty tolerating GLP-1 drugs.

 

What Is Contrave?

Contrave is a prescription weight loss medication that combines:

• Naltrexone: Typically used in addiction treatment, it affects brain reward pathways
• Bupropion: An antidepressant and smoking cessation aid that also reduces appetite

Together, they influence the hypothalamus and reward system in the brain to help control hunger and food cravings.

 

FDA Approval

Use	Status
Chronic weight management	✅ FDA Approved

Indications:

• BMI ≥30 (obese)
• BMI ≥27 (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol

How Effective Is Contrave?

Contrave has been shown to produce moderate weight loss, particularly when combined with a structured diet and exercise program.

• Average weight loss: 5–10% of total body weight over 6–12 months
• In one trial, 48% of participants lost at least 5% of their starting weight

📚 Source: COR-I and COR-BMOD clinical trials

 

Benefits of Contrave

✅ Non-hormonal
 ✅ Oral medication – no injections required
 ✅ Targets emotional eating and food addiction triggers
 ✅ Typically lower cost than GLP-1 medications

 

Cost Comparison

Pharmacy	Monthly Cost
U.S. Retail	~$99-$150
Manufacturer Offer	As low as $99/month with coupon
Canadian Pharmacy	Limited availability

Contrave offers a manufacturer savings card that makes it significantly more affordable for most patients.

 

Common Side Effects

Common	Less Common / Serious
Nausea	Seizures (rare but serious risk)
Constipation	Increased blood pressure
Headache	Mood changes
Dry mouth	Insomnia
Dizziness	Anxiety

⚠️ Contrave carries a black box warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts—especially in younger adults. It should be avoided in individuals with seizure disorders or uncontrolled hypertension.

 

 

Who Should Consider Contrave?

✅ Ideal for:

• Adults seeking a non-GLP-1 weight loss pill
• Patients with a history of emotional eating or cravings
• Individuals who prefer oral medication over injections

❌ Not ideal for:

• Individuals with seizure risk or bipolar disorder
• Those already on other bupropion- or naltrexone-containing medications
• Patients with uncontrolled hypertension

Savings & Access

• Contrave Savings Program
  Most eligible patients can get Contrave for $99/month with a simple online enrollment
• Prescription Discount Cards
  Use GoodRx or SingleCare to compare pricing at local pharmacies
• Telehealth Access
  Contrave offers a direct-to-consumer telehealth program, allowing patients to get evaluated and prescribed online, increasing convenience

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to see results with Contrave?
 Most users begin seeing weight loss results within 4–8 weeks. Full effects may take 3–6 months.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Contrave?
 It’s best to limit alcohol due to the risk of seizures and interactions with bupropion.

Does insurance cover Contrave?
 It depends on the plan. Many commercial insurance plans exclude weight loss drugs, but manufacturer coupons make Contrave affordable for most.

Can I use Contrave with other weight loss medications?
 Contrave should not be combined with other medications containing bupropion or naltrexone. Always consult a physician before combining therapies.

 

Final Thoughts

Contrave offers a unique, brain-focused approach to weight loss, especially beneficial for those who struggle with food cravings, emotional eating, or prefer non-hormonal, non-injectable treatments.

While it may not be as potent as GLP-1 therapies like Wegovy or Mounjaro, it fills an important role in the prescription weight loss toolbox—especially for those seeking a more affordable or oral-based option.

 

📌 To check pricing and eligibility, visit our Contrave and product pricing page.