Bupropion & Naltrexone is a compounded medication that combines two FDA-approved drugs to support weight management.
Bupropion, originally approved for depression and smoking cessation, works on brain chemistry to reduce food cravings and increase energy expenditure. Naltrexone, traditionally used for addiction treatment, helps block reward pathways associated with eating. Together, these medications work synergistically to help control appetite, reduce food cravings, and support sustainable weight loss when used alongside healthy diet and exercise. This compounded formulation offers healthcare providers a customizable approach to weight management that can be tailored to individual patient needs.
Reduced food cravings: May help diminish persistent thoughts about food, including sweets, and decrease hunger sensations
Appetite control: Can help regulate appetite, potentially making it easier to follow a reduced-calorie diet
Improved weight loss results: Clinical studies show greater weight loss compared to diet and exercise alone
Dual mechanism of action: Targets multiple neural pathways involved in hunger and cravings
Mood improvement: The bupropion component may help improve mood and energy levels, which can support motivation for lifestyle changes
Reduced emotional eating: May help address emotional triggers for overeating
Potential metabolic benefits: Some patients experience improved metabolic markers like blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors: Bupropion may increase the risk of suicidal thinking, especially in young adults and those with a history of psychiatric disorders.
Seizure risk: Bupropion can lower the seizure threshold. People with seizure disorders, eating disorders, or who are withdrawing from alcohol or sedatives have higher risk.
Liver injury risk: Naltrexone can cause liver damage. Patients with existing liver conditions require careful monitoring.
Angle-closure glaucoma: Can trigger an attack in people with untreated narrow-angle glaucoma.
Opioid interactions: Naltrexone blocks the effects of opioid medications, potentially precipitating withdrawal in opioid users or preventing pain relief.
Not for pregnant or nursing women: Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.
Contraindications: Not recommended for patients taking MAOIs, with uncontrolled hypertension, seizure disorders, anorexia/bulimia, during opioid withdrawal, or in those currently taking opioid medications.
Allergic reactions: Including rash, itching, hives, swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
