Contrave helps many adults manage weight by combining naltrexone and bupropion to curb appetite and reduce cravings for certain foods. This oral medication supports gradual weight loss when used with a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity. While effective for some, it can bring side effects that affect daily energy levels.
Fatigue or tiredness emerges as a reported experience for certain users, though not listed among the most common adverse reactions in official prescribing information. The bupropion component often boosts alertness in other contexts, yet the combination with naltrexone sometimes leads to unexpected lethargy. These effects vary widely from person to person.
Recognizing whether tiredness stems from the medication, adjustment period, lifestyle factors, or other causes helps manage it effectively. This article explores the connection between Contrave and fatigue, potential reasons behind it, management strategies, and realistic expectations. With clear information, you can navigate treatment more comfortably.
How Contrave Affects Energy Levels
Contrave targets brain pathways involved in hunger and reward to promote satiety and control impulses. Bupropion, a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor, typically increases energy and alertness in many users. Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors, which can modulate these effects in the combination formula.
During the initial four-week dose escalation, the body adjusts to increasing amounts of both components. This adaptation phase sometimes causes temporary dips in energy as systems recalibrate. Most side effects, including any fatigue, tend to lessen over time.
Individual responses differ based on metabolism, concurrent medications, sleep quality, and diet. While some feel more energized, others report the opposite during early weeks. Tracking personal patterns helps distinguish medication-related tiredness from other influences.
Can Contrave Make You Tired
Fatigue appears in some patient reports and reviews, though official lists emphasize nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness, insomnia, dry mouth, and diarrhea as primary complaints. Tiredness occasionally surfaces in real-world experiences, particularly early in treatment or with dose increases.
Bupropion alone often combats fatigue in depression treatment, yet the naltrexone pairing alters dynamics for certain individuals. Reduced calorie intake during weight loss can contribute to lower energy independently of the drug. Dehydration or poor nutrient balance amplifies this effect.
In clinical trials and post-marketing data, unusual tiredness links more to serious concerns like liver issues or interactions rather than routine use. Mild, transient fatigue remains possible and usually improves with continued use or supportive measures.
Common Causes of Tiredness While Taking Contrave
The titration schedule introduces higher doses gradually, which can temporarily disrupt normal energy patterns. Adjusting to changes in neurotransmitter activity sometimes leads to a brief period of lethargy. This often resolves as the body stabilizes.
Calorie restriction essential for Contrave’s effectiveness reduces overall fuel availability. Lower carbohydrate intake or inadequate protein can cause dips in blood sugar and subsequent tiredness. Ensuring balanced meals helps mitigate this.
Sleep disturbances rank among common side effects, with insomnia affecting some users. Poor nighttime rest naturally leads to daytime fatigue. Evening dose timing influences this, as bupropion can prove stimulating for certain people.
Other factors include dehydration from gastrointestinal side effects like nausea or diarrhea. Electrolyte shifts or low iron from dietary changes occasionally contribute. Addressing these basics supports better energy maintenance.
When Tiredness Might Signal Something More Serious
Persistent or severe fatigue accompanied by weakness, abdominal pain, dark urine, or jaundice warrants immediate medical attention. These could indicate rare liver concerns associated with the medication. Prompt evaluation rules out complications.
Unusual drowsiness with slowed breathing or confusion requires emergency care, especially if combined with other symptoms. Interactions with opioids or certain medications heighten risks. Always share your full health history with providers.
Mood changes, including increased irritability or low mood, sometimes accompany energy dips. Monitoring mental well-being remains important, given bupropion’s effects on brain chemistry. Report significant shifts promptly.
Managing Fatigue While on Contrave
Prioritize consistent sleep hygiene with regular bedtimes, limited screens before bed, and a calm environment. If insomnia occurs, discuss evening dose adjustments with your doctor. Better rest often resolves daytime tiredness.
Eat nutrient-dense meals with adequate protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats to sustain energy. Small, frequent eating prevents blood sugar crashes. Stay hydrated throughout the day to combat dehydration-related fatigue.
Incorporate gentle physical activity like walking to boost circulation and mood without overexertion. Short bursts of movement can counteract sluggishness. Build gradually as energy improves.
Over-the-counter supports like caffeine in moderation may help during adjustment, but avoid excess to prevent interactions. Discuss any supplements with your provider first. Rest when needed without guilt during early weeks.
Comparison of Energy-Related Side Effects Across Weight Loss Medications
Different medications affect energy in varied ways. Here’s a table comparing common reports:
| Medication | Primary Components | Common Energy Effects | Fatigue Frequency (Reported) | Typical Onset/Resolution | Management Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contrave | Naltrexone + Bupropion | Insomnia common; fatigue occasional | Low to moderate (patient reports) | Early weeks; often improves | Adjust timing, ensure nutrition |
| Semaglutide (Wegovy) | GLP-1 agonist | Fatigue/malaise possible | Moderate | During dose increases | Hydration, rest, small meals |
| Phentermine | Stimulant | Increased energy, insomnia | Low (more alertness) | Immediate; may wane | Monitor for overstimulation |
| Liraglutide (Saxenda) | GLP-1 agonist | Fatigue reported | Moderate | Early treatment | Similar to semaglutide |
| Orlistat | Fat blocker | Generally neutral; GI-related tiredness | Low | With GI side effects | Focus on balanced intake |
Contrave’s profile leans toward potential alertness from bupropion, with fatigue less dominant than in some GLP-1 options. Individual variation remains key.
Lifestyle Adjustments to Support Energy on Contrave
Build meals around lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats for sustained fuel. Avoid extreme cuts that deplete reserves. Consistent eating patterns prevent energy crashes.
Schedule light exercise during peak alertness periods, often mid-morning or afternoon. Regular movement enhances mood and combats sluggishness. Start slow to build tolerance.
Monitor caffeine and alcohol intake, as both influence energy and interact with medication components. Hydration supports overall function. Simple routines like morning sunlight exposure help regulate circadian rhythms.
Track energy levels alongside weight and side effects in a journal. Patterns guide discussions with your healthcare provider. Small tweaks often restore balance.
Summary
Contrave can contribute to tiredness in some users, particularly during early dose adjustments or due to related factors like reduced calories, poor sleep, or dehydration. While not a primary listed side effect, patient experiences highlight occasional fatigue that typically improves with time and supportive habits. Bupropion’s energizing potential often balances this for many.
Focus on nutrition, rest, hydration, and gentle activity to manage energy dips effectively. Persistent or severe tiredness deserves prompt medical review to rule out other causes. With awareness and adjustments, most people adapt comfortably while pursuing weight management goals.
FAQ
Is fatigue a common side effect of Contrave?
Fatigue appears in some patient reports but isn’t among the most frequently listed side effects like nausea or headache. It often occurs early during dose increases and tends to fade. Lifestyle factors like diet and sleep play a large role.
Why might Contrave cause tiredness in some people?
The body adjusts to changing neurotransmitter activity during titration, sometimes leading to temporary lethargy. Calorie restriction, dehydration, or insomnia from the medication can contribute. Individual sensitivity varies widely.
How long does tiredness last when starting Contrave?
Many notice improvement after the first few weeks as the body adapts to full dosing. Early fatigue often resolves within one to two months. Persistent issues warrant a discussion with your doctor.
Can I take something for energy while on Contrave?
Consult your provider before adding caffeine supplements or stimulants. Adequate nutrition, hydration, and rest usually help most. Gentle exercise supports natural energy without added risks.
Does tiredness on Contrave mean it’s not working?
Not necessarily—energy dips can occur independently of weight loss effectiveness. Many continue losing weight despite initial fatigue. Monitor progress beyond how you feel day to day.
Should I stop Contrave if I feel very tired?
Don’t discontinue without medical advice, as sudden stops can affect progress or cause withdrawal effects. Report severe or ongoing tiredness promptly. Your doctor can assess causes and suggest adjustments.
How can I tell if my fatigue is from Contrave or something else?
Track timing—medication-related tiredness often ties to dose changes or early weeks. Consider diet, sleep, stress, or other health factors. Blood work or evaluation helps clarify underlying issues.
Dr. Hamza is a medical content reviewer with over 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic conditions. His reviews are grounded in trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Hamza is intended for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.