Why is Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion) not working?
Some people do not notice the benefits of Contrave® for weight loss until they reach a higher dose, so give it time. Contrave is started at a low dose and increased slowly to reduce the potential for side effects.
If you’ve been taking Contrave at the highest recommended dose for 3 months and have not noticed a change in your appetite or at least a 5% weight loss, discuss alternative options with your healthcare professional. All weight loss medications affect people differently, so it’s not uncommon to take a medication but not get the results you’re expecting. The only way to know if a medication will work for you is to try it. Your healthcare professional may be able to recommend other options if the medication you’re taking is not working for you.
Lauren Lemieux, MD, FACP, ABOM diplomate
Dr. Lauren Lemieux completed her Internal Medicine residency and fellowship in Clinical Nutrition at UCLA. She is board certified in Internal Medicine and diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, and as a Physician Nutrition Specialist. She is also a fellow of the American College of Physicians. Dr. Lemieux is passionate about helping her patients reach their health goals using personalized nutrition, lifestyle and weight management strategies.
Contrave® is a registered trademark of Currax Pharmaceutical LLC