When it comes to effectively managing type 2 diabetes and weight loss medications, the selection of the appropriate medication plays a crucial role. Among the various options available, two widely recognized choices are Mounjaro and Contrave. Each of these prescription weight loss medications possesses distinct advantages for helping individuals lose weight, making it essential to delve into their mechanisms of action, efficacy, method of administration, potential side effects, and cost to make a well-informed decision.
Mounjaro and Contrave are available in Canada and are approved by Health Canada for diabetes and weight loss.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is an innovative medication belonging to the GLP-1 agonist family, which is known for its effectiveness in treating diabetes. However, Mounjaro has also been increasingly recognized for its potential in addressing weight loss and treating obesity.
As a dual agonist of GLP-1 and GIP, Mounjaro emulates the actions of these naturally occurring gut hormones. By doing so, Mounjaro promotes increased insulin secretion from the pancreas, slows down the movement of food through the stomach, and helps in regulating blood sugar levels. Studies have also shown that patients taking Mounjaro have had significantly lowered high blood pressure. These combined effects result in reduced appetite and food cravings, ultimately contributing to the observed weight loss benefits, particularly for those with a high body weight.
What is Contrave?
Contrave is a prescription weight loss medication that is a combination of two active ingredients: naltrexone and bupropion. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by reducing the desire for food, while bupropion is an antidepressant that also acts to suppress appetite and increase metabolic rate. When used together, these drugs can assist individuals to lose weight by lowering their calorie intake and raising their energy expenditure.
Contrave is often prescribed as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan, particularly for individuals whose body mass index classifies them as overweight or obese. As with many anti-obesity medications, it is most effective when paired with lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise.
How Do Mounjaro and Contrave Work for Weight Loss?
Mounjaro
This medication combines the effects of a GLP-1 receptor agonist and a GIP receptor agonist. It helps manage blood sugar levels by:
- Increasing Insulin Production: This action helps lower blood sugar.
- Slowing Stomach Emptying: This can prolong feelings of fullness and contribute to weight loss.
Contrave
This combination medication includes naltrexone and bupropion. It is not designed to aid in managing blood sugar levels. It targets weight loss through different mechanisms:
- Naltrexone: Originally used to manage addiction, it helps with weight loss by influencing the brain’s reward system, reducing cravings, and improving appetite control and emotional eating.
- Bupropion: Commonly prescribed for depression, it also helps with weight management and weight loss by affecting neurotransmitters related to appetite and mood
Both medications are effective, but the choice between them may depend on individual health factors and responses.
Which is More Effective for Weight Loss - Mounjaro or Contrave?
Both medications, Mounjaro and Contrave, have shown significant potential in helping patients lose weight and manage long-term weight loss, especially for individuals with a higher body mass index. However, the most effective results are observed when these anti-obesity medications are used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
In a research study for Mounjaro, an extensive clinical trial involved over 2500 participants and assessed the effectiveness of Mounjaro in managing weight loss. Non-diabetic participants struggling with overweight were administered various doses of Mounjaro for 72 weeks, alongside a calorie-restricted diet (500 kcal/day), 150 minutes of weekly exercise, and regular consultations with a dietitian and nutritionist.
The trial revealed that after 72 weeks, each group receiving Mounjaro exhibited substantial weight loss compared to the placebo group. Every treatment group experienced a 15-20% change in weight from the beginning of the trial, with higher doses of Mounjaro demonstrating more pronounced effects. These findings underscore the effectiveness of Mounjaro when combined with diet and exercise in treating weight loss.
Contrave's efficacy in weight loss was highlighted in a well-known trial published in 2010. This trial investigated the weight loss effects of Contrave in overweight patients. Participants were administered oral Contrave for 52 weeks, alongside a calorie-restricted diet and regular exercise. The results revealed that after 52 weeks, nearly half of the participants taking Contrave experienced a minimum of 5% reduction in weight. Subsequent clinical trials further reinforced the benefits of Contrave for weight loss.
How Are Mounjaro and Contrave Administered?
When considering weight loss medications such as Mounjaro and Contrave, understanding how they are administered is essential for effective treatment. Both medications are administered differently, which can be essential in helping you choose the best option for your weight loss journey.
Administering Mounjaro for Weight Loss
- Dosage: Administered via injection using a convenient pre-filled pen. The injection can be self-administered into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm using a pre-filled pen device.
- Frequency: Injected once per week, with or without food
- Convenience: Designed for long-term successful weight management
Administering Contrave for Weight Loss
- Dosage: Taken orally in tablet form, increasing slowly to the full dose
- Frequency: Taken twice daily in the morning and evening
- Convenience: Designed for long-term weight management
Both Mounjaro and Contrave can be great aids in weight loss and weight management but are taken differently. Whether you prefer a weekly injection or daily medication, these medications can help you achieve your weight loss goals when paired with a healthy diet, exercise, and caloric deficit. Your healthcare provider may adjust the medication dosage and schedule based on your specific health goals.
Side Effects Comparison: Mounjaro vs. Contrave
While both Ozempic and Contrave are effective for chronic weight management and weight loss, understanding the side effects of each can be helpful in determining which weight loss medication is right for you. Side effects of each medication can vary in frequency and severity.
Mounjaro Side Effects
- Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
- Serious Side Effects: Severe digestive problems, gallbladder issues, and severe allergic reactions can happen. Though rare, serious issues like pancreatitis and thyroid cancer may occur as a result of taking Mounjaro.
Contrave Side Effects
- Common Side Effects: Nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness, insomnia, and dry mouth are some of the common side effects.
- Serious Side Effects: May include increased risk of seizures, high blood pressure and heart rate, cardiovascular events, and potential psychiatric effects such as mood changes.
Choosing between these medications will depend on your overall health, body weight goals, and personal or family history. Reporting any side effects to your healthcare provider is crucial for managing them effectively and determining whether the benefits of the medication outweigh the risks.
Comparing Mounjaro vs. Contrave Prices in Canada
Price for weight loss medications can be a significant factor in choosing between Mounjaro and Contrave. Here’s a general guide to their costs:
- Dosage: Higher dosages can lead to higher costs.
- Pharmacy: Prices may vary between pharmacies, prices also vary between online pharmacies and retail pharmacies.
- Online weight loss clinics: Some new healthcare companies, like Felixforyou, Livewell, Science and Humen, and DooU, offer Mounjaro prices ranging from $400/ box to $540/box.
- Insurance Coverage: Your insurance may not cover the cost of this medication for the weight loss program.
For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing:
- Contact Your Insurance Provider: Check what is covered for both medications.
- Compare Pharmacy Prices: Visit different pharmacies to find the best rate.
- Explore Generic Options: If available, generics might offer cost savings.
Can You Take Mounjaro and Contrave Together for Weight Loss?
It is not recommended to take Mounjaro and Contrave together. Using both medications simultaneously could increase the risk of side effects due to their different mechanisms of action. Always consult your healthcare provider before combining or switching medications.
What Is The Average Weight Loss on Mounjaro vs. Contrave?
Individual weight loss results will vary between individuals, and will depend on the patient's individuals health goals and needs. Contrave and Mounjaro have both been shown to be effective medications for long-term weight reduction which can result in improvements in other weight-related health conditions.
When comparing studies on each medication, there is a higher percentage of patients achieving better weight loss with Mounjaro. Though Mounjaro appears to be more effective, Contrave may be more convenient for patients who do not wish to use injectable medications.
Switching from Mounjaro to Contrave or Contrave to Mounjaro for Weight Loss?
Switching between Mounjaro and Contrave is generally not advised unless guided by your healthcare provider. Both medications offer weight loss benefits but through different approaches.
Switching may not provide additional benefits and could heighten the risk of side effects. If considering a switch, discuss your options with your healthcare provider to assess whether it aligns with your health needs and weight loss goals.