If you are Australian and looking at Contrave for losing weight and researching the price (with and without insurance) as well as the safety aspect, we have the answers.
We will give you the Contrave Australian price and which pharmacies sell the prescription appetite suppressant and also tell you about the correct dosage and usage.
Contrave is a combination drug that provides bupropion and naltrexone. It was approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration for the treatment of obese or overweight adults. However, although the medication works well for many people, concerns about its cost and potential side effects have generated a lot of interest in cheaper and safer weight loss alternatives .
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Safe and Cheaper Alternatives to Contrave: Quick Look
What is Contrave?
Contrave is a Schedule 4 prescription weight loss pill that combines two active ingredients: naltrexone HCI and bupropion HCI. It's intended for use by certain overweight and obese adults as part of a comprehensive weight management plan.
Naltrexone HCI is primarily used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence, while bupropion HCI is an antidepressant that can also help reduce appetite and is sometimes used to treat anxiety. When combined, these medications work synergistically to suppress appetite, making it easier to lose weight.
Contrave is meant to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise regimen. It functions as an appetite suppressant, helping its users manage their food intake. However, its effectiveness and safety may vary from person to person. The potential side effects include nausea, headache, and increased blood pressure.
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Contrave also has the potential to cause suicidal thoughts and liver damage. Not surprisingly, many Australians who have the opportunity to use the medication find these risks unacceptable. With an average price tag of AUD $250, the cost of using Contrave does not work in its favor either.
The Top 3 Alternatives to Contrave Compared
#1 - PhenQ - Recommended
PhenQ is a weight loss supplement developed for people seeking a safe alternative to Phentermine (Duromine) . It's already helped more than 190,000 people to lose weight and has the backing of a 60-day money-back guarantee. Many people using this dietary supplement report weight losses of 11 pounds or more per month.
We rank PhenQ as the top alternative to Contrave overall. It's safe and effective, cheaper to use, does not require a doctor's prescription, and has no known side effects.
PhenQ also offers a greater level of weight management support than Contrave. All the prescription medication does is control hunger urges. PhenQ targets stubborn body fat by suppressing appetite, increasing metabolism, boosting energy levels, and blocking fat cell formation. It even contains an ingredient that enhances mood.
These benefits are made possible by a cutting-edge combination of natural ingredients including a-Lacys Reset and Capsimax powder.
a-Lacys Reset is a patented synergistic combination of Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) and Cysteine. In one clinical trial, people given this powerful proprietary ingredient lost 7.24% more fat than people taking a placebo.
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Research shows the capsaicin capsicum supports fat loss in several ways including suppressing appetite and increasing thermogenesis. An in-depth investigation into its abilities shows capsaicin also discourages fat cell formation. [1]
#2 - Capsiplex
Capsiplex is a popular fat-burning supplement that comes in two versions: Capsiplex Burn and Capsiplex Trim. These supplements primarily help you to lose weight by boosting metabolism and promoting fat burning.
Capsiplex Burn is a fat-burning formula for men who want to torch their body fat and carve out a well-toned physique by spending a lot of time in the gym.
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Almost the same as Burn but not quite, Capsiplex Trim is a fat burner for women who have serious body ambitions and are willing to put in the work that is necessary to get where they want to be.
Although neither option is as versatile as PhenQ, both Capsiplex supplements are good alternatives to Contrave. They are safe and effective, have excellent customer reviews, and money-back guarantees that last for 60 days.
Innoslim is a proprietary blend of Panax ginseng and Astragalus membranaceus that regulates blood sugar levels, speeds up fat loss, and improves overall metabolic wellness. [2]
#3 - Zotrim
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Zotrim is a herbal weight-loss supplement. Like Contrave, Zotrim controls hunger but, other than providing a modest energy boost, it has no value in additional areas.
Cheaper and easier to obtain than Contrave, you can lose weight with Zotrim without any need to visit a doctor or pharmacist. It's a powerful option that has no known side effects and has beaten prescription medicines in clinical trials.
The supplement's appetite-suppressing capabilities are due to three South American herbs that offer a unique synergistic effect: yerba mate, damiana leaf, and guarana. The first two ingredients are leaf extracts. The third comes from a tropical berry.
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Research shows that acting together, this specific combination of natural ingredients controls hunger by slowing down gastric emptying, causing food to remain in the stomach for longer. [3]
If you just want a diet pill that is safer than Contrave and works well for managing hunger, Zotrim fits the bill. However, if you want a pill that suppresses appetite and will accelerate your fat loss too, PhenQ is the better option.
Effectiveness of Contrave: Clinical Studies and Results
Contrave's value as a weight management aid has been explored via several clinical studies.
A study published in Australia’s Pharmacy and Therapeutics confirms Contrave can be effective when used alongside appropriate dietary changes and sufficient levels of physical activity.
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However, the study took data from two 56-week clinical investigations that show participants taking the drug combination only lost 5% to 15% more weight than the members of the placebo group. That's a statistical difference but does not compare well to the weight losses many people achieve using high-ranking natural supplements like PhenQ.
The study also points out the prevalence of gastrointestinal side effects. There were reports of nausea from 27% to 34% of study participants.
Reports of headaches were quite common too with 14% to 24% of those involved complaining about this problem. Dizziness was an issue for 7% to 14% of study participants. The entire study is available to read online at the National Library of Medicine. [4]
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A study published in Future Cardiology explored the response to Contrave from obese type 2 diabetics taking part in 4 phase 3 clinical trials.
The treatment period was 52 weeks and 4536 people took part. The average weight reduction was only 11 to 22 pounds. [5]
Is Contrave Legal in Australia
Here are some key details about Contrave from Australian government sources:
Contrave is the brand name for the combination drug bupropion hydrochloride/naltrexone hydrochloride. It is used for chronic weight management in obese adults (BMI over 30).
Contrave is not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). This means it does not receive Australian government subsidies and patients pay the full cost.
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Contrave was approved for use in Australia by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in February 2017.
The TGA approved indication is as "an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adults with an initial Body Mass Index of 30 kg/m2 or greater (obese), or 27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) in the presence of one or more weight-related comorbidities (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus for dyslipidemia)."
The TGA reviewed clinical trial data and approved Contrave as safe and effective for this purpose when used under medical guidance and supervision.
The Australian Drug Evaluation Committee evaluated Contrave in 2015 and did not recommend it be subsidized on the PBS due to very high cost compared to benefit.
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Doctors can legally prescribe Contrave in Australia to suitable patients. It can only be dispensed with a valid Australian prescription.
The TGA and Department of Health provide relevant information and regulation around Contrave in Australia as a prescription-only medication.
Contrave Usage Instructions and Dosage Recommendations
When it comes to using Contrave, it's crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and usage instructions provided by your healthcare professional under TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) directives. You will also need to follow a low-calorie diet plan and make appropriate efforts to increase your levels of physical activity.
The starting dose is one tablet once a day, in the morning. The dose gradually increases over four weeks.
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It's important to swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Never cut, chew, or crush the tablets.
Contrave Side Effects and Dangers
The most commonly reported side effects of Contrave are nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness, and insomnia. These issues usually resolve themselves within the first weeks of use but may get worse if you take more than one dose a day.
Additional side effects may include:
- Dry mouth
- Vomiting
- Insomnia
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Hot flashes
- Jitters
- Hair loss
- Heart palpitations
- Racing heartbeat
The medication may affect alertness and is known to cause some people to contemplate suicide. It also has the potential to cause severe liver disease or hepatitis. A minority of users may experience panic attacks or mood disorders.
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Other side effects can include high blood pressure and allergic reactions that can range from mild to severe.
Who Can and Cannot Use Contrave?
The TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) only allows Healthcare professionals in Australia to prescribe this medication to adults who are 18 years and older with an initial Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2 (obese).
They can also prescribe it to adults who have a BMI of 27 kg/m2 to 29 kg/m2 but only in the presence of one or more weight-related comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes or controlled hypertension.
If patients don't lose at least 5% of their body weight during the first 16 weeks of treatment, their access to the medication is removed.
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However, even when Australians have an initial body weight that is sufficient to warrant a prescription, they still may not be suitable candidates for treatment. Certain medical conditions can prevent its use. As can the use of certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, asthma medicines, and many other drugs.
Due to the risk of suicidal thoughts and anxiety, Contrave is a poor choice for people who suffer from or have a medical history of depression or certain other mental health conditions. It's an equally poor option for people who have a history of extreme mood swings or are suffering from end-stage kidney disease, hypertension, bipolar disorders, or seizure disorders.
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As with any other form of weight management treatment, this medication is a poor choice for anyone who has an eating disorder.
Contrave presents unfavorable interactions with 710 drugs. Out of those, 219 can have major reactions.
Medications you need to avoid while taking include OTC options such as Ibuprofen (Advil, Burgesic, Hedafen, Nurofen, Panafen, Herron Blue). Because of this, if your doctor offers to prescribe you Contrave, it's important you update them about any supplements or medicines you are taking,
Where to Get Contrave in Australia
Here are some ways to get Contrave in Australia, with a selection of pharmacies across different states:
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New South Wales
TerryWhite Chemmart - Major pharmacy chain with locations across NSW that can fill Contrave prescriptions.
Priceline Pharmacy - Found in many NSW communities, often in shopping centres. Requires prescription.
Victoria
Chemist Warehouse - Low cost chain found throughout VIC. Has Contrave available with prescription.
Pharmasave - Independent pharmacies located in multiple areas of Victoria.
Queensland
- Discount Drug Stores - Chain pharmacy in QLD, Tasmania and NSW. Stocks Contrave.
Amcal Pharmacy - Part of Sigma group, with stores across QLD. Can order it in.
Western Australia
Blooms The Chemist - WA-based chain that stocks prescription weight loss medications.
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Pharmacy 777 - Locations in Perth and other parts of WA. Requires prescription.
South Australia
National Pharmacies - Major pharmacy brand with outlets all across SA. Sells Contrave.
Chemplus - Independent pharmacies based in SA that can order in Contrave.
Tasmania
TerryWhite Chemmart - Found across Tasmania with prescription availability.
Pharmacy Choice - Independent chemists located in major Tasmanian towns.
As always, you'll need a valid Australian prescription from your doctor to purchase Contrave. Availability at individual pharmacies may vary. Discuss with your pharmacist.
Can you get Contrave on Insurance in Australia?
Yes, it is possible to get Contrave covered by insurance in Australia, but there are some requirements and caveats:
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Contrave is not currently subsidized under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), so general patients will need to pay the full cost out-of-pocket.
However, Contrave may be covered by some private health insurance plans in Australia. The level of coverage will vary depending on your specific insurer and policy.
To get insurance coverage for Contrave, you will typically need:
A valid prescription for Contrave from an Australian healthcare provider.
Confirmation that your illness (obesity) and need for Contrave meets your insurer's criteria. Documentation from your doctor will usually be required.
Approval from your health insurer that Contrave will be covered under your policy before you fill the prescription.
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To pay any applicable deductibles, co-pays or claims processes required by your insurer. The remaining cost should then be covered up to your policy limits.
To purchase Contrave from an Australian pharmacy that is part of your insurer's approved network.
So in summary, insurance coverage for Contrave is available in Australia but not guaranteed. You need to check with your specific health insurance provider about their criteria, processes and the level of reimbursement you can expect for this non-PBS medication. The approval and claims process can take some time.
Australia Contrave FAQs
How much does Contrave cost?
The cost of Contrave can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage and pharmacy pricing. However, the average cost of Contrave in Australian pharmacies is $250 per month.
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What's in Contrave?
Contrave contains two active ingredients: naltrexone hydrochloride and bupropion hydrochloride. Naltrexone is often used to treat opioid addiction, and bupropion is an antidepressant and smoking cessation aid. Together, they may help with appetite control and weight loss.
How quickly does Contrave work for weight loss?
Results vary from one person to the next. However, data from clinical trials suggest it should be possible to lose at least 1-2 pounds per month. [5]
Does Contrave work without diet and exercise?
As with all prescription weight management medication, Contrave is designed to be used alongside a low-calorie diet and exercise.
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Australian Contrave Conclusion and Summary
Contrave is a TGA-approved medication that can provide benefits to those who are obese or overweight. However, it's not as potent as many natural alternatives and comes with a long list of potential side effects.
It's important to understand the risks before taking this medication since there are numerous contraindications and warnings associated with its use.
The cost of Contrave can be a significant factor to consider for many people. Without insurance, the amount can reach up to $250 per month. All the best natural alternatives cost less than half this amount.
Lastest Contrave Australian Research Sources
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- Dietary Capsaicin and Its Anti-obesity Potency: From Mechanism to Clinical Implications: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5426284/
- InnoSlim: https://nulivscience.com/ingredients/innoslim/
- Weight Loss and Delayed Gastric Emptying Following a South American Herbal Preparation in Overweight Patients: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11424516/
- Naltrexone SR/Bupropion SR (Contrave): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3138366/
- Naltrexone/Bupropion for the Treatment of Obesity and Obesity With Type 2 Diabetes: https://www.futuremedicine.com/doi/abs/10.2217/fca.15.79
Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.
