Contrave vs Wegovy is a common comparison for those seeking effective weight loss solutions.
Both are FDA-approved medications designed to help adults manage obesity. This article breaks down their differences, benefits, and risks to help you decide.
What Are Contrave and Wegovy?
Contrave is a pill combining naltrexone and bupropion. It targets cravings and appetite in the brain.
Wegovy, an injectable drug, uses semaglutide to mimic a hormone that controls hunger. Both require a prescription and work best with diet and exercise.
Contrave is taken daily, while Wegovy is a weekly injection. They suit adults with obesity or weight-related health issues. Always consult a doctor to determine eligibility.
How Do Contrave and Wegovy Work?
Contrave affects the brain’s reward and hunger centers. Naltrexone reduces food cravings, while bupropion curbs appetite. This helps users eat less and avoid emotional eating. It’s ideal for those struggling with food triggers.
Wegovy mimics GLP-1, a hormone that slows digestion and signals fullness. It also improves blood sugar control. This makes it effective for weight loss and diabetes management.
Who Can Use These Medications?
Contrave is approved for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher. It’s also for those with a BMI of 27 or higher with conditions like hypertension. Wegovy is for similar groups but also approved for children 12 and older with obesity.
Wegovy has an added benefit for heart health. It reduces risks of heart attack and stroke in some patients. Neither drug is suitable for pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions.
Benefits of Contrave vs Wegovy
Contrave helps control emotional eating and cravings. Users often lose 5-8% of their body weight in a year. It’s a good choice for those who prefer oral medication. Lifestyle changes boost its effectiveness.
Wegovy typically leads to greater weight loss, around 15% of body weight. It also improves blood sugar and heart health. Its weekly dosing is convenient for many users.
Key Benefits Comparison
- Contrave: Reduces cravings, oral pill, supports emotional eating control
- Wegovy: Higher weight loss, heart health benefits, weekly injection
How Are They Administered?
Contrave starts with one pill daily, increasing to two pills twice daily by week four. It’s taken with low-fat meals to reduce side effects. Missing doses can affect results.
Wegovy is injected once weekly, starting at a low dose. The dose gradually increases over months. Injections are done at home, usually in the stomach or thigh.
Weight Loss Results
Contrave users lose about 5-8% of their body weight over 56 weeks. Those sticking to the plan may reach 11.5%. Results depend on diet and exercise adherence.
Wegovy shows stronger results, with users losing 14-15% of body weight over 68 weeks. Some maintain this loss for two years. It often outperforms Contrave in clinical trials.
Side Effects of Contrave vs Wegovy
Contrave’s common side effects include nausea, headache, and constipation. Some experience insomnia or dizziness. These often lessen over time with proper use.
Wegovy frequently causes nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. Gastrointestinal issues are more common, especially early on. Serious side effects for both drugs are rare but possible.
Common Side Effects
- Contrave: Nausea, headache, constipation, insomnia
- Wegovy: Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue
Risks and Precautions
Contrave carries a risk of increased blood pressure and seizures. It’s not safe for those with seizure disorders or uncontrolled hypertension. Mood changes, including suicidal thoughts, are rare but serious.
Wegovy may increase risks of thyroid tumors or low blood sugar. It can affect oral medication absorption due to slowed digestion. Both drugs require medical supervision.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Contrave costs $200-$300 monthly without insurance. Some plans cover it, and manufacturer programs offer discounts. Wegovy is pricier, often $1,000 or more monthly. Insurance coverage varies widely.
Wegovy’s discount cards can lower costs for insured patients. Contrave’s access program offers it for $99 monthly via mail-order. Check with your provider for options.
Contrave vs Wegovy: Key Differences
The table below compares Contrave and Wegovy at a glance.
| Feature | Contrave | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Naltrexone/Bupropion | Semaglutide |
| Form | Oral pill | Weekly injection |
| Weight Loss | 5-8% (up to 11.5%) | 14-15% |
| FDA Approval | Adults only | Adults and children 12+ |
| Cost (Monthly) | $200-$300 (or $99 with program) | $1,000+ (discounts available) |
Lifestyle Changes for Success
Both medications work best with healthy habits. A diet low in processed foods and high in vegetables is key. Regular exercise, like 150 minutes of walking weekly, enhances results.
Behavioral changes matter too. Tracking meals or working with a dietitian helps. Contrave and Wegovy support these efforts but don’t replace them.
Which Is More Effective?
Wegovy generally leads to more weight loss than Contrave. Studies show 14-15% body weight reduction with Wegovy versus 5-8% with Contrave. Wegovy’s effects are more consistent across users.
Contrave excels for those with emotional eating or cravings. It’s less effective for overall weight loss but suits specific needs. Your doctor can guide the choice.
Who Should Choose Contrave?
Contrave is ideal for adults struggling with food cravings. It’s a good fit for those who prefer pills over injections. People with depression may benefit from its bupropion component.
It’s not for those with seizures or opioid use. Always discuss your medical history with a doctor. Contrave works best with commitment to lifestyle changes.
Who Should Choose Wegovy?
Wegovy suits those seeking significant weight loss. It’s effective for people with type 2 diabetes or heart disease risks. The weekly injection appeals to those who dislike daily pills.
It’s not recommended for those with thyroid issues or severe allergies. Wegovy requires careful monitoring, especially for blood sugar changes.
Can You Combine Contrave and Wegovy?
Taking Contrave and Wegovy together isn’t recommended. Combining them may increase side effects without added benefits. No studies support their combined use for weight loss.
Your doctor will choose one based on your needs. Switching between them is possible under medical guidance. Always follow professional advice.
Long-Term Use and Maintenance
Contrave is used long-term if effective and tolerated. Some continue it to maintain weight loss. Regular check-ins monitor blood pressure and mood.
Wegovy is also a long-term option. Users often need to continue it to keep weight off. Stopping can lead to weight regain, especially without lifestyle changes.
Tips for Success with Contrave vs Wegovy
Start Contrave with small meals to reduce nausea. Stay hydrated and track progress in a journal. Regular doctor visits ensure safe use.
For Wegovy, learn proper injection techniques. Eat slowly to manage digestive side effects. Pair both drugs with sustainable diet and exercise habits.
Summary
Contrave vs Wegovy offers two paths for weight loss, each with unique strengths. Contrave, a daily pill, targets cravings and emotional eating, delivering 5-8% weight loss. Wegovy, a weekly injection, achieves 14-15% weight loss and benefits heart and diabetes health. Both require diet and exercise for success.
Side effects like nausea are common but manageable. Costs vary, with Wegovy being pricier. Consult your doctor to choose based on your health and goals.
FAQ
What is the main difference between Contrave and Wegovy?
Contrave is a daily pill targeting cravings, while Wegovy is a weekly injection. Wegovy typically leads to more weight loss. Both work best with lifestyle changes.
How much weight can I lose with Contrave vs Wegovy?
Contrave users lose 5-8% of body weight in a year. Wegovy users lose 14-15% over 68 weeks. Results vary based on adherence.
Are there serious side effects with these drugs?
Contrave may cause seizures or mood changes. Wegovy risks include thyroid tumors or low blood sugar. Consult a doctor for monitoring.
Can I switch between Contrave and Wegovy?
Switching is possible under medical supervision. Your doctor will assess your needs and manage the transition. Combining them is not advised.
Which is cheaper, Contrave or Wegovy?
Contrave costs $200-$300 monthly, or $99 with programs. Wegovy is $1,000+ but offers discounts. Insurance coverage affects affordability.