Contrave is a prescription weight loss medication combining naltrexone and bupropion to curb appetite and cravings. While effective, it can cause side effects, especially when starting.
Many wonder, do side effects of Contrave go away? This article explains what to expect, how side effects evolve, and how to manage them for a successful journey.
What Is Contrave and How It Works
Contrave helps with weight loss by targeting brain pathways that control hunger. Naltrexone reduces cravings, while bupropion, an antidepressant, suppresses appetite. Together, they help you eat less when paired with diet and exercise.
Taken as an extended-release tablet, Contrave starts with a low dose to minimize side effects. Understanding its action can help you stay patient as your body adjusts.
Common Side Effects of Contrave
Side effects are most noticeable in the first few weeks. Nausea, affecting about 32.5% of users, is the most common. Other frequent issues include headaches (17.6%), constipation (19.2%), and dizziness.
These effects are usually mild and temporary. Knowing which side effects are common prepares you for the early stages. Most people find relief as treatment continues.
Do Side Effects of Contrave Go Away?
Do side effects of Contrave go away? In most cases, yes. Nausea, headaches, and dizziness often fade within 1–4 weeks as your body adapts to the medication. Clinical studies show side effects peak early and decline over time.
Some effects, like constipation, may linger longer. If side effects persist beyond a month, consult your doctor. They may adjust your dose or suggest management strategies.
Managing Nausea
Nausea is the leading side effect, especially in the first two weeks. Taking Contrave with a low-fat meal, like yogurt or toast, can reduce it. Avoid rich or spicy foods, which may worsen symptoms.
Small, frequent meals help stabilize your stomach. If nausea continues, your doctor may recommend anti-nausea medication. Staying hydrated also eases discomfort.
Handling Headaches
Headaches are common early on but often lessen within weeks. Drinking 8–10 glasses of water daily prevents dehydration-related headaches. A regular sleep schedule supports recovery.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help. If headaches remain severe, talk to your doctor. They’ll check for other causes, like blood pressure changes.
Addressing Constipation
Constipation may start early and persist for some. Increase fiber gradually with foods like apples, carrots, or oats. Drink plenty of water to aid digestion.
Light exercise, like walking, promotes bowel movement. If constipation lasts, ask your doctor about gentle laxatives. Avoid sudden high-fiber diets to prevent bloating.
Coping with Dizziness and Fatigue
Dizziness or fatigue can occur in the first weeks but usually fades. Rest when needed and avoid activities like driving if you feel lightheaded. Staying hydrated helps.
If dizziness lingers, your doctor may check your blood pressure or dose. These effects typically resolve as your body adjusts to Contrave.
Less Common Side Effects
Dry mouth, insomnia, or mild anxiety may occur. Dry mouth can be managed with sugar-free gum or frequent water sips. For insomnia, avoid caffeine late and establish a bedtime routine.
Anxiety is less common but should be monitored. If it persists, discuss it with your doctor. These effects often improve within a few weeks.
Tips to Manage Less Common Side Effects
- Chew sugar-free gum for dry mouth
- Limit caffeine after noon for better sleep
- Practice deep breathing for mild anxiety
- Keep a consistent sleep schedule
Serious Side Effects to Watch For
Contrave carries a boxed warning for suicidal thoughts, particularly in younger adults. Rare but serious risks include seizures, allergic reactions, or high blood pressure. Stop Contrave and seek help for symptoms like rash, chest pain, or mood changes.
These effects are uncommon, affecting less than 1% of users. Always report severe symptoms to your doctor immediately. Vigilance ensures safety.
Tracking Side Effects Over Time
Monitoring side effects helps you and your doctor assess Contrave’s impact. Log symptoms, their severity, and any relief methods. This can guide dose changes or alternative treatments.
A tracker also shows when side effects fade. Most users see improvement by week four. Persistent issues may need medical attention.
Sample Side Effect Tracker
| Day | Side Effect | Severity (1–10) | Management | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 2 | Nausea | 5 | Ate crackers, rested | Better by evening |
| Day 7 | Constipation | 4 | Added fiber, walked | Slight improvement |
| Day 14 | Headache | 3 | Drank water, ibuprofen | Almost gone |
How Dosing Affects Side Effects
Contrave’s dose increases weekly, from one tablet daily in week one to two tablets twice daily by week four. Each dose hike may bring mild side effects, but they’re usually less intense than the first week.
Gradual dosing helps your body adjust. If side effects worsen with higher doses, tell your doctor. They may pause the increase or adjust your plan.
Lifestyle Tips to Ease Side Effects
A healthy lifestyle can reduce side effects. Eat a balanced, low-calorie diet with lean proteins and vegetables to support weight loss. Avoid high-fat meals, which increase seizure risk.
Light exercise, like 20-minute walks, boosts mood and digestion. Get 7–9 hours of sleep to combat fatigue. These habits help side effects fade faster.
Working with Your Doctor
Regular doctor visits are crucial, especially if side effects persist. Share your symptom tracker and any concerns, like ongoing nausea or mood changes. Your doctor may adjust your dose or check for interactions.
List all medications you take, as some interact with Contrave. Open communication ensures safe, effective treatment. Follow-up appointments track your progress.
Mental Health Monitoring
Bupropion in Contrave can affect mood, especially early on. Watch for anxiety, irritability, or depression. Ask loved ones to note any behavior changes.
If you have a mental health history, inform your doctor before starting. Call 911 or the 988 Lifeline for suicidal thoughts. Monitoring protects your well-being.
What Happens After the First Month
By week four, most side effects, like nausea and headaches, significantly decrease. Constipation or dry mouth may persist but often improve with lifestyle changes. Weight loss becomes more noticeable, with 5% body weight loss expected by week 12.
If side effects remain bothersome, your doctor may reassess Contrave’s fit. Continued healthy habits enhance results and minimize discomfort.
Building a Support System
Starting Contrave can feel overwhelming. Share your goals with friends or family for encouragement. Online weight loss communities offer tips and motivation.
Support keeps you focused, especially if side effects linger. Celebrate milestones, like reduced nausea or losing a few pounds. A positive mindset aids success.
Long-Term Outlook
Contrave is designed for long-term use with diet and exercise. Side effects typically lessen over months, though some, like constipation, may need ongoing management. Regular doctor check-ins ensure safety.
If you don’t lose 5% of your weight by week 12, your doctor may stop Contrave. Healthy habits maintain weight loss and minimize side effects.
Staying Patient and Persistent
Do side effects of Contrave go away? For most, the answer is yes, with time and proper management. Stay patient, as your body needs weeks to adapt. Track symptoms and follow your doctor’s advice.
Small setbacks, like mild nausea, are normal. Keep up diet, exercise, and sleep routines. Persistence leads to fewer side effects and better weight loss.
Summary
Do side effects of Contrave go away? Most, like nausea, headaches, and dizziness, fade within 1–4 weeks, while constipation may persist longer.
Manage symptoms with low-fat meals, hydration, and lifestyle changes. Track side effects, avoid alcohol, and monitor for serious issues like mood changes.
Work with your doctor and build a support system to stay on track. With patience, Contrave’s side effects lessen, paving the way for effective weight loss.
FAQ
How long do Contrave side effects typically last?
Most side effects, like nausea and headaches, fade within 1–4 weeks. Some, like constipation, may last longer. Consult your doctor if symptoms persist.
Can I reduce Contrave side effects with food?
Yes, take Contrave with a low-fat meal to reduce nausea. Avoid high-fat foods, which increase seizure risk. Small, frequent meals help.
What if side effects don’t go away after a month?
If side effects persist, talk to your doctor. They may adjust your dose or consider other treatments. Share your symptom tracker for clarity.
Are Contrave side effects worse with higher doses?
Higher doses may cause mild side effects, but they’re often less intense than week one. Gradual increases help adaptation. Report severe symptoms.
Can I stop Contrave if side effects are too much?
Don’t stop without your doctor’s advice, as sudden changes can cause issues. They may lower your dose or suggest alternatives. Always consult first.