Naltrexone Bupropion: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you hear Naltrexone Bupropion, a prescription medication combining an opioid blocker and an antidepressant to help manage weight. Also known as Contrave, it's not just another pill—it's a targeted approach for people struggling with obesity who haven't found success with diet and exercise alone. Unlike simple appetite suppressants, this combo works on two sides of the brain: one part reduces cravings, the other helps control impulses. It doesn't magic away weight, but it gives your brain the support it needs to stick with healthier choices.

This treatment is meant for adults with a BMI over 30, or over 27 with weight-related health issues like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. It’s not for everyone—people with uncontrolled high blood pressure, seizure disorders, or a history of eating disorders should avoid it. The bupropion, an antidepressant that also helps reduce nicotine cravings and improve focus part helps with mood and motivation, while the naltrexone, a drug used to block opioid receptors and reduce reward-driven eating part dulls the brain’s urge to overeat, especially when triggered by stress or high-fat foods. Together, they create a synergy that’s been studied in clinical trials involving thousands of people, showing measurable weight loss over time—typically 5% to 10% of body weight in a year when paired with lifestyle changes.

People often ask if it’s better than Ozempic or Wegovy. The answer? It’s different. Those are GLP-1 agonists that slow digestion and reduce hunger directly. Naltrexone Bupropion works more on behavior and reward pathways. It’s not as powerful for rapid weight loss, but it’s oral, cheaper, and doesn’t require injections. It also doesn’t cause the same level of nausea for most users. But it takes time—most people start seeing results after 4 to 8 weeks, and if you haven’t lost at least 5% of your weight by 12 weeks, your doctor may recommend stopping.

You’ll find posts here that dig into how this combo compares to other weight loss meds, what side effects to expect (headaches, insomnia, dry mouth are common), and how to manage them. You’ll also see real stories from people who’ve used it, what worked, what didn’t, and why some people quit. There’s no sugarcoating—it’s not a miracle drug. But for many, it’s the missing piece that finally lets them take control.