If you’re looking to lose weight then medication like Naltrexone and Bupropion tablets can help you to do so more effectively – and more sustainably – than just dieting and making lifestyle changes.
In this guide we’ll tell you everything you need to know about Naltrexone and Bupropion tablets, so keep reading.
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Naltrexone and bupropion are two medications that, when combined, are used to help with weight loss. Naltrexone can be used to treat alcohol and opioid addiction, while bupropion is a smoking cessation aid. When combined, they can help reduce hunger and cravings, making it easier to stick to a weight loss plan. This combination is marketed under the brand name Mysimba in the UK.
Yes, the combination of naltrexone and bupropion is licensed in the UK for weight management under the brand name Mysimba. It’s available by prescription for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or for those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
Naltrexone and bupropion work together by affecting different parts of the brain involved in appetite and cravings. Naltrexone helps reduce cravings and the pleasure associated with eating, while bupropion helps control hunger and boosts mood. Together, they help decrease the desire to eat and make it easier to stick to a reduced-calorie diet.
No, naltrexone and bupropion are not GLP-1 receptor agonists. They work through different mechanisms compared to GLP-1 medications like semaglutide. GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the GLP-1 hormone to regulate appetite and blood sugar, while naltrexone and bupropion work on the brain’s reward and hunger centres.
It can vary from person to person, but most people start to notice a reduction in appetite and cravings within the first few weeks. Significant weight loss typically takes a few months. As with any weight loss medication, combining it with lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise is important.
Naltrexone HCL and bupropion HCL refer to the hydrochloride (HCL) salt forms of the medications. This is a common way to formulate medications to ensure they are stable in tablets and can be effectively absorbed by the body. The HCL forms are not different in terms of the effect on the body. So, naltrexone HCL and bupropion HCL are essentially the same as naltrexone and bupropion when it comes to their effects.
Yes, the combination of naltrexone and bupropion is available in the UK under the brand name Mysimba. It is prescribed for weight management in adults who meet specific criteria.
You can get naltrexone and bupropion from most pharmacies in the UK, but you’ll need a prescription from your doctor. Your healthcare provider can guide you on where to fill your prescription and may also suggest pharmacies that have the medication in stock.
The cost of Mysimba can vary, but typically it’s around £100 per month. Prices can differ based on the pharmacy.
The NHS has strict criteria for covering weight loss medications, and currently, Mysimba is not routinely funded for most patients. However, it might be available through a specialist weight management service in certain cases. It’s best to discuss this with your doctor, who can provide more details and see if there are any options available for you under the NHS.
You don’t need to keep naltrexone and bupropion in the fridge. These tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The fridge is typically necessary for some injectable medications, but not for oral tablets.
The tablets should be taken with a glass of water. It’s recommended to take the tablets with food to help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to take them, including the dosage.
The dosing schedule usually starts low, with a gradual increase to help your body adjust to the medication. Typically, it starts with one tablet once a day in the morning for the first week. In the second week, the dose is increased to one tablet in the morning and one in the evening. By the third week, it’s usually two tablets in the morning and one in the evening, and from the fourth week onwards, it’s two tablets in the morning and two in the evening. Your clinician will provide the exact schedule and adjust it based on your response to the medication, and any side effects that you experience.
Yes, it’s possible to take too much, and an overdose can be dangerous. It is also possible to increase the dose too quickly, so you must follow your doctor’s instructions for increasing the dose. Symptoms of an overdose can include seizures, rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure, hallucinations, and loss of consciousness. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage and not take more than recommended. If you think you’ve taken too much, seek medical attention immediately.
The most common side effects of the combination of naltrexone and bupropion include nausea, headache, dizziness, insomnia, dry mouth, and constipation. Some people also experience anxiety, increased blood pressure, and a fast heart rate. These side effects are usually mild to moderate and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication. More serious but less common side effects can include seizures, liver problems, and severe allergic reactions. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you experience any side effects, especially if they don’t go away. For severe side effects see a doctor immediately.
It is important to be aware of the common side effects of dizziness and sleepiness as these can affect the ability to drive, operate machinery, or perform dangerous tasks, particularly at the start of treatment or when the dose is increased. Speak to your doctor about these risks before taking the medication.
No, naltrexone and bupropion are not considered addictive. Naltrexone is actually used to help treat addiction to alcohol and opioids by blocking the euphoric effects of these substances. Bupropion is a smoking cessation aid that is also not considered addictive.
Fatigue isn’t a common side effect of naltrexone and bupropion, but some people might experience it. If you do feel unusually tired, it’s a good idea to speak to your doctor to ensure it’s not related to another underlying condition, or to see if your medication needs adjusting.
There’s no scientific evidence that naltrexone and bupropion cause cancer. These medications are closely monitored for safety, and any potential risks are carefully weighed against the benefits.
Your doctor will assess if this medication is suitable, but caution is advised in patients with a history of depression of very high blood pressure.
Yes, nausea is one of the most common side effects of naltrexone and bupropion. It tends to be more prominent when you first start taking the medication and usually decreases over time as your body adjusts. Taking medication with food can help reduce nausea. If it becomes severe or persistent, contact us.
This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.
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