If you are looking into the different medications available to help with weight loss, things can quickly become confusing. The newer GLP-1 medications are getting a lot of attention and all work similarly, but you may not know the difference between some that are older and more established.
Two medications that have been around for decades are Contrave and phentermine. How do Contrave vs. phentermine compare? Both of these medications were created to help people lose weight, but they work in different ways and have different usage instructions.
Contrave vs. Phentermine Overview
| Contrave | Phentermine | |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | A prescription weight loss pill that combines two medicines (naltrexone and bupropion). | A prescription weight loss medicine that helps reduce hunger and curb cravings. |
| What is it used for? | Managing weight long-term for certain adults. | To help with weight loss for a limited amount of time. |
| How does it work? | Helps control hunger, cravings, and emotional eating. | Helps you feel less hungry so you eat less. |
| Is it a controlled substance? | No. | Yes, it is a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it carries a small risk of dependence. |
How Contrave Works for Weight Loss
Contrave comes in a tablet form that slowly releases medication into your system that many people use long-term to help manage their weight. The tablets combine two prescription medicines that work in different ways: naltrexone, and bupropion.
- Bupropion stimulates neurons in your brain that signal fullness and help suppress your appetite. It also increases the chemicals in your brain like dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps you become satisfied while eating fewer calories and helps curb emotional eating or eating because you are bored.
- Naltrexone is given to individuals to block receptors in the brain to help treat dependence on drugs or alcohol. The way it works for weight loss is that it blocks the “feel good” reward you get from eating sugar or fatty foods, which significantly reduces cravings and your desire to eat unhealthy foods.
These drugs combined help to reduce hunger and significantly reduce cravings, so you eat less and lose weight. Contrave may help individuals overcome some of the challenges that come with trying to lose weight, but it is not a magic pill and will not do all the work for you. You will also need to do your part and use this medication in conjunction with the following:
- Making significant changes to your lifestyle that promote a healthy weight.
- Eating a low-calorie, nutritious diet.
- Getting plenty of exercise.
- Working closely with a qualified weight loss specialist.
How Phentermine Works for Weight Loss
Phentermine is a stimulant and is only prescribed for short-term use up to 3 months and may be helpful to jump start a weight loss journey. It can help reduce your appetite so you can eat less and lose weight.
Your doctor will need to discuss your medical history with you and may also run some tests before prescribing phentermine because it is not a good fit for everyone. Individuals with certain heart conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or those who are taking certain medications should not use phentermine.
Which Is Better For Weight Loss, Contrave vs. Phentermine?
The better option is the one that will best fit your needs right now, which may depend on several things, including:
- Your medical history.
- If your blood pressure is stable.
- Any current medications you are taking.
- History of mental health.
- If you are at risk for seizures.
- Opioid use
- Weight loss goals
- Cost of the medication
- How long you will need to remain on the medication.
After a consultation and an extensive review of your health and medical history, your doctor will decide on the best weight loss medication for you. Contrave may be considered if you will need something long-term to help you reach your goals, and phentermine may be considered if you just need some help for a few months.
Side Effects and Safety
Every prescription medication has some associated side effects, and this is true for both Contrave and phentermine.
Common side effects of Contrave may include:
- Nausea
- Throwing up
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Constipation
- Trouble sleeping
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
Other more serious side effects may include:
- Seizures
- Elevated blood pressure
- Rapid heart rate
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Common phentermine side effects may include:
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Bad taste in the mouth
Other more serious side effects may include:
- Anxiety
- Rapid heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
- Insomnia & feeling restless
- Dizziness
- Tremors
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Severe skin reactions
- Swelling in the ankles or legs
Who Is Not A Good Candidate For Contrave vs. Phentermine?
When comparing Contrave vs. phentermine for weight loss, not everyone is a suitable candidate.
Contrave may not be a good choice for people who:
- Use opioid prescription pain medicine or illegal drugs.
- Have an eating disorder.
- Are prone to seizures.
- Have unregulated high blood pressure.
- Women who are pregnant or nursing.
- Are on certain medications that may interact.
Phentermine may not be a good fit for people who have:
- Certain heart issues.
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Certain thyroid issues.
- Glaucoma
- A history of drug abuse.
- Women who are pregnant or nursing.
- Individuals who have recently taken an MAO inhibitor medication.
Who Can I Talk With to Learn More About Weight Loss Medications?
If you are interested in using weight loss medication to help you with appetite control and reduce cravings, Dr. Okeefe Simmons can help.
Dr. Simmons is a triple board-certified physician at Simmons MD Weight and Healthcare Solutions who specializes in weight management. He offers supervised medical weight loss programs in Aventura, FL, and convenient virtual weight loss consultations for qualified patients.
Set up your consultation today to learn more about weight loss medications and which ones may be suitable options for you
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Contrave or phentermine more effective for weight loss?
It depends on the person who is using it. The best choice depends on your medical history, any health conditions you might have, how well your body tolerates the medication, and the goals you are trying to reach.
Can you take Contrave and phentermine together?
It is not routinely recommended. Some doctors may prescribe them together in certain situations, but for many people the combination can cause serious side effects.
Is Contrave safer than phentermine?
Not necessarily. Both medications come with risks and boxed warnings. Whether either is safe for you to use depends on your medical history, current health, any medication you are taking, etc. Your doctor will review all these things and decide which medication will be safe and effective for you to use.
Why is phentermine only prescribed to be used for a short time?
Phentermine is usually prescribed for a limited amount of time because it is a stimulant that may cause unhealthy increases in heart rate and blood pressure for some people. Your body can also become used to it, which makes it less effective.
