Contrave is a prescription pill that combines two active ingredients-naltrexone (8 mg) and bupropion (90 mg). It belongs to the therapeutic categories of addiction & quit-smoking and weight-loss management. In Hong Kong, Contrave is classified as a prescription medication and is regulated by the Department of Health, with its approval aligned with standards used by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The product is marketed in a single tablet strength of 8 mg/90 mg.
Contrave targets two neural pathways that influence appetite and reward:
Together, the combination dampens cravings while promoting satiety. The onset of effect typically begins within a few days, with maximal weight-loss benefit observed after several weeks of consistent use. Both ingredients are absorbed well from the gastrointestinal tract, and bupropion is metabolized primarily by the CYP2B6 enzyme, while naltrexone undergoes hepatic metabolism via glucuronidation.
Contrave is officially approved for chronic weight management in adults who meet one of the following criteria:
The medication is intended to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. While both naltrexone and bupropion have individual approvals for addiction-related indications (naltrexone for alcohol dependence, bupropion for smoking cessation), Contrave itself is not approved for smoking cessation or alcohol-use disorder in Hong Kong.
Off-label use requires close medical supervision and individualized risk assessment.
If you fall into any of these categories, discuss alternative weight-management strategies with your healthcare provider.
Patients should provide a complete medication list-including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products-to their prescriber.
Standard dosing schedule:
Week 1: One tablet daily.
Week 2: Two tablets daily (one in the morning, one in the evening).
Week 3 onward: Three tablets daily (morning, midday, evening).
Administration tips: Swallow each tablet whole with a full glass of water. The medication can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce nausea.
Missed dose: If you miss a dose, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double up.
Overdose: Symptoms may include seizures, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, or severe nausea. Seek emergency medical care; supportive care and activated charcoal are typical first-line measures.
Discontinuation: Abrupt cessation is permissible, but a gradual taper may reduce the likelihood of rebound weight gain. Discuss tapering with your prescriber.
If any adverse reaction or inadequate weight loss (less than 5 % of baseline weight after 12 weeks) occurs, your clinician may reassess the treatment plan.
This article provides educational information about Contrave and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including use for unapproved indications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. The content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical recommendations. Always consult a physician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.
Contrave is intended to complement a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity. Using the medication alone typically yields modest weight loss, whereas combined lifestyle changes enhance effectiveness.
Most patients notice a gradual reduction in weight within the first 12 weeks; clinically significant loss (≥ 5 % of baseline weight) is often observed after 6 months of consistent use.
Bupropion has antidepressant properties, but it can also cause mood swings or suicidal thoughts, especially in younger adults. Close monitoring by a healthcare professional is essential.
Seek emergency medical care immediately. Inform the medical team that you are taking bupropion, as it may influence treatment decisions.
Alcohol may increase the risk of seizures and exacerbate side effects such as dizziness and nausea. Limit alcohol intake and discuss any consumption with your prescriber.
Contrave does not directly raise blood glucose, and weight loss can improve glycaemic control. However, monitor blood sugar regularly and inform your diabetes care team of any medication changes.
Bupropion and its metabolites can be detected in urine drug screens, potentially leading to a positive result for stimulants. Notify testing agencies of your prescription if relevant.
Contrave acts centrally on appetite and reward pathways, while orlistat works peripherally by inhibiting fat absorption in the gut. The mechanisms, side-effect profiles, and dosing regimens are distinct.
Yes, but keep the medication in its original packaging with the prescription label, and carry a copy of the prescription. Check the destination country’s import regulations for prescription drugs.
Contact your prescriber before restarting. Typically, you would repeat the missed week’s dosing schedule rather than jumping ahead, to minimise side-effect risk.
