Gibson Pharmacy – Complete Guide to Bupropion-Naltrexone (Contrave Price) for Weight Management

Gibson Pharmacy is a fully licensed, legal pharmacy operating in compliance with FDA, DEA, and state board of pharmacy regulations. Contrave (bupropion/naltrexone) is a prescription medication indicated for chronic weight management in adults with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater (obese) or 27 kg/m² or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight‑related comorbidity such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia. This guide is for informational and educational purposes only. Gibson Pharmacy requires a valid prescription for all Contrave orders.

The information in this leaflet is based on FDA-approved prescribing information and clinical studies. Always consult your physician for medical advice.

What Is Bupropion-Naltrexone (Contrave)?

Contrave is a prescription weight loss medication that combines two active ingredients: bupropion (an aminoketone antidepressant) and naltrexone (an opioid antagonist). The combination is approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with weight‑related medical problems.

The contrave naltrexone hclbupropion hcl combination was approved by the FDA in 2014 and has since helped thousands of patients achieve sustainable weight loss when combined with diet and exercise.

Product Specifications

Feature	Contrave
Active ingredients	Bupropion hydrochloride (90 mg) / Naltrexone hydrochloride (8 mg)
Available strength	8 mg / 90 mg extended-release tablets
Formulation	Extended-release tablet
Typical maintenance dose	2 tablets twice daily (32 mg/360 mg daily)
Status	Prescription medication (Rx)
Manufacturer	Currax Pharmaceuticals LLC
FDA Approval	2014 (NDA 022063)

How Does Contrave Work?

The two medications work through complementary mechanisms to promote weight loss:

Bupropion Component:

• Enhances dopamine and norepinephrine activity in the brain

• Reduces appetite and food cravings

• Acts on the hypothalamus to regulate hunger signals

Naltrexone Component:

• Modulates the brain’s reward system

• Reduces cravings and emotional eating behaviors by blocking opioid receptors

• Works synergistically with bupropion to amplify weight loss effects

Together, these two medications target areas of the brain involved in hunger, cravings, and reward pathways, making it easier for patients to adhere to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. The exact neurochemical effects leading to weight loss are not fully understood but are believed to involve the hypothalamus and mesolimbic dopamine circuit.

Uses

FDA-Approved Indication

Contrave is indicated as an adjunct to a reduced‑calorie diet and increased physical activity to reduce excess body weight and maintain weight reduction long term in adults with:

• An initial BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater (obese)

• An initial BMI of 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

Important Limitations of Use

• The effect of Contrave on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been established

• Coadministration with other bupropion-containing products is contraindicated

• Coadministration with other naltrexone-containing products is not recommended

Advantages

When prescribed appropriately for eligible patients, Contrave offers several significant advantages:

1. Proven weight loss efficacy: Clinical studies show that taking Contrave along with diet and exercise can help you lose weight and keep it off. In a 56‑week trial, 62% of patients taking Contrave achieved ≥5% weight loss vs 23% taking placebo among completers.

2. Dual mechanism targeting hunger and cravings: The combination of bupropion and naltrexone targets brain pathways involved in hunger and cravings, addressing both physiological appetite and reward-driven eating.

3. Twice-daily oral tablet: No injections required.

4. FDA-approved for chronic use: Unlike phentermine alone (approved only for short‑term use), Contrave is approved for long‑term weight management.

5. May improve weight-related comorbidities: Weight loss achieved with Contrave may help improve blood pressure, blood sugar control, and lipid profiles.

6. Affordable option compared to GLP-1 medications: The typical contrave cost is significantly lower than newer injectable weight loss medications.

7. Titratable dosing: The 4‑week dose escalation schedule helps improve tolerability.

Clinical Trial Results

In the COR-I study (56‑week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 1,074 patients):

• 62% of Contrave patients achieved ≥5% weight loss vs 23% on placebo (completers)

• 42% of Contrave patients achieved ≥5% weight loss vs 17% on placebo (ITT-LOCF)

In real‑world practice Canadian study (468 participants, 6 months):

• Mean weight loss: 4.23 kg (4.05%)

• 42.5% lost at least 5% of their body weight

• 15.5% lost at least 10% of their body weight

Benefits also included decreased appetite (14.7%), decreased cravings (13.9%), decreased hunger (9.4%), and feeling full sooner (2.5%).

Contrave Reviews

Bupropion naltrexone weight loss reviews from clinical studies and real-world use are generally positive. Many patients report significant reduction in cravings and emotional eating. It highlight the importance of the titration schedule to minimize side effects. Bupropion/naltrexone weight loss reviews from real-world practice show that over 40% of patients achieve at least 5% weight loss at 6 months.

Contrave weight loss reviews often mention that the medication helps with appetite control without the high cost of injectable options. Contrave weight loss reviews from patients who struggled with emotional eating report particularly positive experiences. Contrave reviews overall average positive ratings, though individual results vary. Reading can help set realistic expectations but should always be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Contrave Before and After

These contrave before and after photos often show significant improvements over 6‑12 months of treatment. results typically reflect the combination of medication with diet and exercise changes. Viewing galleries can be motivating, but individual results vary based on multiple factors including adherence to lifestyle modifications.

Disadvantages and Risks

Boxed Warning: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Contrave contains bupropion, the same active ingredient as some antidepressant medications (including Wellbutrin). Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults in short‑term trials. Contrave is not approved for use in pediatric patients. Monitor for worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Common Side Effects (≥5%)

The most common adverse reactions (≥5% and more common than placebo) include:

• Nausea

• Constipation

• Headache

• Vomiting

• Dizziness

• Insomnia

• Dry mouth

• Diarrhea

Serious Warnings and Precautions

Neuropsychiatric Adverse Events: Postmarketing reports of serious neuropsychiatric events have included changes in mood (including depression and mania), psychosis, hallucinations, paranoia, delusions, aggression, hostility, agitation, anxiety, panic, as well as suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and completed suicide.

Risk of Seizure: Bupropion can lower the seizure threshold. The risk may be minimized by adhering to the recommended dosing schedule and avoiding coadministration with a high‑fat meal.

Increase in Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Monitor blood pressure and heart rate in all patients, especially those with cardiac or cerebrovascular disease. The risk may be greater during the initial three months of therapy.

Hepatotoxicity: Cases of hepatitis and clinically significant liver dysfunction have been observed with naltrexone exposure.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Angle-closure glaucoma has occurred in patients with untreated anatomically narrow angles treated with antidepressants.

Hypoglycemia with Antidiabetic Medications: Weight loss may cause hypoglycemia in patients taking insulin or sulfonylureas. Monitor blood glucose.

Dosage and Administration

Recommended Dosage Escalation Schedule

Week	Morning Dose	Evening Dose
Week 1	1 tablet	None
Week 2	1 tablet	1 tablet
Week 3	2 tablets	1 tablet
Week 4 – Onward	2 tablets	2 tablets

• Total daily maintenance dose: 32 mg naltrexone HCl / 360 mg bupropion HCl (two tablets twice daily)

• Tablets should not be cut, chewed, or crushed

• Contrave should be taken with meals. However, Contrave should not be taken with a high‑fat meal because of a resulting significant increase in bupropion and naltrexone systemic exposure

• Response to therapy should be evaluated after 12 weeks at the maintenance dosage. If a patient has not lost at least 5% of baseline body weight, discontinue Contrave, as it is unlikely that the patient will achieve and sustain clinically meaningful weight loss with continued treatment

What to Know Before Taking Contrave

Contraindications

Contrave is contraindicated in patients with:

• Uncontrolled hypertension

• Seizure disorders, anorexia nervosa or bulimia, or undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs

• Use of other bupropion-containing products (Wellbutrin, Aplenzin, etc.)

• Chronic opioid use (naltrexone is an opioid antagonist and may cause withdrawal)

• During or within 14 days of taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

• Known allergy to any of the ingredients in Contrave

Medical Conditions to Disclose

Tell your doctor if you have:

• Kidney disease (dose adjustment needed)

• Liver disease (dose adjustment needed; not recommended for severe impairment)

• Seizure disorder

• Bipolar disorder or other psychiatric conditions

• Diabetes (monitor blood glucose)

• Hypertension (monitor blood pressure)

• Angle-closure glaucoma

• History of eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia)

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Weight loss during pregnancy may cause fetal harm. Contrave should be discontinued when a pregnancy is recognized.

Breastfeeding: Bupropion and naltrexone pass into breast milk. Discuss with your healthcare provider.

Drug Interactions

Interacting Drug	Effect
MAOIs	Contraindicated (within 14 days)
Other bupropion‑containing products	Contraindicated
Chronic opioids	May precipitate withdrawal
CYP2D6 substrates (certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, beta‑blockers, antiarrhythmics)	Bupropion inhibits CYP2D6; may increase levels of these drugs
CYP2B6 inhibitors (ticlopidine, clopidogrel)	May increase bupropion exposure; do not exceed one tablet twice daily
CYP2B6 inducers (ritonavir, carbamazepine, phenytoin)	May reduce Contrave efficacy; avoid concomitant use
Dopaminergic drugs (levodopa, amantadine)	CNS toxicity possible
Drugs that lower seizure threshold	Use with caution

Effects and After Effects

Short‑Term Therapeutic Effects

• Reduced appetite and hunger

• Decreased cravings for high‑fat, high‑sugar foods

• Reduced emotional eating behaviors

• Weight loss begins within the first 4‑8 weeks

Short‑Term Adverse Effects

• Nausea (most common during the first week)

• Constipation

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Insomnia (take morning dose early)

• Dry mouth

After Effects (Discontinuation)

If Contrave is discontinued, weight regain may occur if lifestyle changes (diet and exercise) are not maintained. Gradual discontinuation is not required, but patients should be aware that appetite suppression will cease. If a patient has not lost at least 5% of baseline weight after 12 weeks at the maintenance dosage, Contrave should be discontinued.

Long‑Term Considerations

• Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly, especially during the first 3 months

• Monitor liver function if history of liver disease

• Monitor mood for depression or suicidal thoughts

• Continue lifestyle modifications for sustained results

Allergy, Conditions, or Health Issues

Allergic Reactions (Seek Emergency Care for serious side effects including)

• Rash, hives, or itching

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing

• Anaphylaxis (rare)

Special Populations

Population	Consideration
Elderly (≥65 years)	No specific adjustment; monitor blood pressure and mood
Renal impairment (moderate to severe)	Maximum dose: 1 tablet twice daily; not recommended for end‑stage renal disease
Hepatic impairment (moderate)	Maximum dose: 1 tablet twice daily; not recommended for severe impairment
Pediatrics (<18 years)	Safety and effectiveness not established; not approved for use

Food, Drinks, and Activities to Avoid

Substance	Interaction	Recommendation
Alcohol	Increases risk of seizure and CNS depression	Avoid or limit significantly
High‑fat meals	Significantly increases bupropion and naltrexone absorption; may increase side effects	Avoid taking Contrave with high‑fat meals
Other CNS depressants	Additive dizziness and drowsiness	Use with caution
Caffeine	Additive stimulant effects (insomnia, jitteriness)	Limit intake, especially in the evening

Activities to Avoid

• Driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Contrave affects you (dizziness, insomnia, or visual changes may occur)

• Sudden discontinuation of other psychiatric medications – consult your doctor

• Dehydration – maintain adequate hydration

• Pregnancy – discontinue immediately if pregnancy is recognized

Contents of the Pack

When you order Contrave from Gibson Pharmacy with a valid prescription, the pack includes:

1. Contrave extended-release tablets – Bottle containing 120 tablets (one‑month supply at maintenance dose)

2. Prescribing information – FDA‑approved full prescribing information

3. Medication guide – FDA‑approved patient information

4. Discreet outer packaging – Plain, temperature‑controlled shipping container

Available Strength

• 8 mg / 90 mg extended-release tablets (only strength available)

Contrave Price

Understanding price is an important consideration for patients planning weight loss therapy. The contrave price varies based on insurance coverage, pharmacy, and available savings programs.

Current Contrave Price Information

Brand Contrave cash price (without insurance):

• Via GoodRx savings card: As low as $199 per month

• Average retail price: Approximately $150‑$300 per month

• The contrave cost with the GoodRx program is available at over 70,000 pharmacies nationwide regardless of insurance status

The contrave cost for uninsured patients can be significantly reduced through manufacturer savings programs. The price of contrave is generally lower than many injectable weight loss medications. When comparing contrave vs wegovy, the contrave cost is substantially lower (Wegovy list price ~$1,375/month).

Bupropion cost (generic bupropion) alone is less expensive, but bupropion cost does not include the naltrexone component, and the combination is not available as a generic in the same extended‑release formulation as branded Contrave. for generic immediate‑release bupropion is lower, but this is not the same as the branded Contrave combination product.

Contrave without insurance is available through the GoodRx cash pay program for as low as $199 per month. is also available at Gibson Pharmacy with competitive pricing. Understanding options helps patients make informed financial decisions.

Your insurance cover glps may differ from coverage for Contrave. Your insurance covers glps (GLP‑1 medications like Wegovy, Zepbound) may have different prior authorization requirements compared to Contrave. Your insurance cover glps often requires documentation of specific medical conditions, while Contrave may have different coverage criteria. Verify what your insurance covers and Contrave separately with your insurance provider.

Contrave vs Wegovy / Contrave vs Zepboun

Feature	Contrave	Wegovy
Active ingredients	Bupropion/naltrexone	Semaglutide
Form	Oral tablet (twice daily)	Injectable (once weekly)
Average weight loss	5‑9% of body weight	~15% of body weight
Monthly cost	$99‑$300	$199‑$1,375
Availability	No shortages	No current shortages

Contrave vs wegovy helps patients decide which option fits their preferences for administration (pill vs injection), cost, and weight loss goals. A contrave vs wegovy comparison should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Current cost of contrave at Gibson Pharmacy is $199 per month through our savings program. The price of contrave at Gibson Pharmacy is competitive and we accept insurance for eligible patients. Contact us for a personalized quote .

Bupropion naltrexone weight loss reviews comparing Contrave to Wegovy often highlight that Wegovy produces greater weight loss on average, but Contrave is more affordable and oral. Bupropion / naltrexone weight loss reviews from patients who switched from injectables to Contrave cite cost savings and convenience as advantages vary; some patients achieve excellent results with Contrave without the need for injections.

To understand bupropion cost versus Contrave cost: generic bupropion alone (e.g., Wellbutrin) is less expensive than Contrave, but bupropion alone is not FDA‑approved for weight loss. The combination of bupropion and naltrexone in Contrave provides synergistic weight loss effects not seen with bupropion alone.

Contrave vs zepbound: Zepbound (tirzepatide) is another injectable GLP‑1/GIP agonist with higher weight loss efficacy (~20‑25%) but higher cost. comparisons should consider cost, route of administration, and individual health factors. Contrave vs zepbound is a discussion for you and your physician.

Storage Requirements

Proper Storage

• Store at room temperature (68‑77°F / 20‑25°C)

• Protect from light and moisture

• Keep the bottle tightly closed

• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Handling Precautions

• Do not use after the expiration date

• Do not share Contrave with others

• Dispose of unused medication through a drug take‑back program

Policy of Gibson Pharmacy

Gibson Pharmacy operates under strict legal and ethical policies:

1. No Refunds or Exchanges: Due to patient safety regulations, returns are not accepted.

2. Privacy Compliance: Fully HIPAA‑compliant. Patient health information is protected.

3. Shipping Policy: Fast and secured discreet delivery with tracking. Adult signature required.

4. Licensing and Accreditation: Fully licensed, LegitScript‑certified pharmacy.

Contrave price transparency: We provide clear pricing information before order confirmation. The quote is final with no hidden fees. Contact us for a current contrave cost estimate with your insurance.

Recommendations for Buying Prescribed Medications from Gibson Pharmacy

1. Always use licensed pharmacies. Gibson Pharmacy is LegitScript‑certified.

2. Discuss your full medical history with your prescriber, including any history of seizures, eating disorders, or bipolar disorder.

3. Have baseline blood pressure measured before starting Contrave.

4. Follow the dose escalation schedule (Week 1 starting dose) to minimize side effects.

5. Avoid high‑fat meals when taking Contrave.

6. Do not take Contrave with other bupropion‑containing products.

Why Gibson Pharmacy is the Right Choice:

• 100% Genuine, FDA‑Approved Contrave

• fast and secured discreet delivery to most states

• Licensed pharmacists available for consultation

• quality product for good prices (competitive contrave price)

• LegitScript‑certified

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the current contrave price?

The contrave price through GoodRx is as low as $199 per month. The contrave cost at Gibson Pharmacy is competitive. Contact us for a current contrave price quote with your insurance.

2. What do contrave reviews say about weight loss?

Contrave reviews from clinical trials show 42‑62% of patients achieve ≥5% weight loss. Bupropion / naltrexone weight loss reviews from real‑world practice show average 4% weight loss at 6 months.

3. How does contrave vs wegovy compare?

Contrave vs wegovy: Wegovy typically produces greater weight loss (~15% vs 5‑9%) but is more expensive ($1,375vs$99‑300) and requires weekly injections. Contrave vs wegovy should be discussed with your doctor.

4. What does contrave before and after look like?

Contrave before and after results vary. Clinical studies show average weight loss of 4‑9% over 6‑12 months. Consistent diet and exercise are essential for optimal contrave before and after outcomes.

5. What is the difference between bupropion cost and Contrave cost?

The bupropion cost for generic bupropion alone is lower, but bupropion alone is not FDA‑approved for weight loss. Contrave (bupropion/naltrexone combination) is specifically approved for weight management.

6. Does Contrave interact with other medications?

Contrave interacts with MAOIs, other bupropion products, chronic opioids, many antidepressants, and drugs metabolized by CYP2D6. Provide a full medication list to your doctor.

7. Can I stop Contrave suddenly?

If the maintenance dosage has not produced at least 5% weight loss after 12 weeks, Contrave should be discontinued. Otherwise, taper under medical supervision is generally not required, but discuss with your doctor.

8. How long does Contrave take to work?

Weight loss may begin within the first 4‑8 weeks. Response to therapy should be evaluated after 12 weeks at the maintenance dosage.

9. Does Gibson Pharmacy offer fast and secured discreet delivery for Contrave?

Yes. All orders with a valid prescription ship via fast and secured discreet delivery with tracking and adult signature required.

Final Thoughts

Bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave) is an effective, oral, non‑GLP‑1 prescription weight loss medication that helps patients reduce hunger and control cravings. When combined with diet and exercise, Contrave can help patients achieve and maintain significant weight loss.

Contrave price has become more affordable through manufacturer savings programs, with cash prices as low as $199 per month. Contrave vs wegovy comparisons help patients choose the right option based on their preferences, budget, and weight loss goals.

For patients who prefer an oral medication, struggle with cravings and emotional eating, and are looking for an affordable option, Contrave may be an excellent choice. Contrave weight loss reviews from real patients highlight improvements in appetite control and quality of life.

Visit Gibson Pharmacy today for genuine Contrave . Take the first step toward healthy, sustainable weight loss safely and legally.