Contrave

Contrave is a new obesity treatment drug which is due to receive final approval by the US FDA in January 2011. This obesity treatment works by influencing serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain with the aim to help a patient reduce and control their appetite. If taken twice a day, Contrave can potentially help users lose more than 10% of their body weight in as little as 12 months.

How does Contrave work and who can take it?

Contrave is focused on treating obesity and the neurological causes of obesity so it is advisable not to take the product if you have a BMI under 30. These weight loss pills are likely to be recommended for both men and women over the age of 18 to take. As with any prescription weight loss treatment, it should be done in conjunction with a healthy eating plan and exercise routine catered to your specific needs.

Contrave combines two separate well-established medications, bupropion and naltrexone, to boost the body’s ability to lose weight, without adversely affecting the cardiovascular function. Bupropion acts as a catalyst for weight loss, while naltrexone has a complementary function to help maintain weight and assist in further weight loss.

Bupropion affects the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, which then reduces appetite and increases the body’s fat burning capabilities. Naltrexone makes weight loss regimes more sustainable. It does this by influencing how the taste of sweet food is perceived, so that it becomes less pleasant.

What are the benefits?

Contrave works by suppressing your appetite, which will reduce your desire to eat as much and as regularly. It does this by influencing the neurological causes of obesity, rather than altering your body’s metabolic function. Contrave is therefore considered to be highly effective at reducing the neurological risk factors that can lead to obesity, such as metabolic syndrome.

Contrave can also reduce waist circumference which can decrease your risk of developing cardiovascular problems and diabetes. In addition to this, Contrave also decreases the levels of harmful cholesterol (LDL) in the system.

Why hasn’t it been approved yet?

Contrave, along with Qnexa and Lorcaserin was up for review by the FDA in autumn 2010. Contrave is no longer under review, and just awaiting final approval by the governing body. The positive response by the FDA’s review board, is a clear illustration that Contrave can potentially help many people who struggle with their weight.

If you are looking for a prescription weight loss treatment, the only approved treatment available currently is Xenical. If you have come across sites selling Contrave, Qnexa or Lorcaserin, then it is best to avoid these websites until confirmation has been received from the FDA on whether these treatments are safe to use. We will keep you informed about the status of these treatments. If you require any further information on the weight loss treatments available click here.