Weight Loss Drug Approved by FDA: New Hope for Millions of Americans Struggling with Obesity

In a breakthrough for the millions of Americans struggling with obesity, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new weight loss drug. The drug, known as Contrave, is a prescription medication designed to help adults lose weight and maintain weight loss for up to two years.

Contrave is a combination of two well-known medications, naltrexone and bupropion. Naltrexone is often used to treat opioid addiction, while bupropion is an antidepressant. When combined, the two medications have been shown to suppress appetite and increase feelings of fullness, making it easier for people to stick to a healthy diet and exercise plan.

The FDA approval of Contrave is the first new prescription weight loss medication to be approved in over a decade. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one-third of American adults have obesity, which increases the risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

“We are pleased to approve Contrave, a new medication that will help adults with obesity achieve and maintain weight loss,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “This approval demonstrates the FDA’s commitment to providing patients with innovative treatment options for serious diseases.”

Contrave was tested in a clinical trial involving over 4,500 patients with obesity. The study showed that participants who took Contrave lost an average of 15.9% of their initial body weight over a period of 56 weeks, compared to 2.2% for participants who took a placebo. Additionally, participants who took Contrave were more likely to achieve significant weight loss, defined as at least 10% of initial body weight.

The most common side effects of Contrave include nausea, headache, and dizziness. In rare cases, patients may experience more serious side effects, such as increased blood pressure, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping.

While Contrave is not a magic pill and requires a comprehensive approach to weight loss, including a healthy diet and regular exercise, it can be a helpful tool for individuals who are struggling to lose weight and maintain weight loss.

“Contrave is an important addition to the treatment options available for adults with obesity,” said Dr. Louis Aronne, director of the Comprehensive Weight Management Program at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center. “For many patients, weight loss is a complex issue that requires a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes. Contrave can be a helpful part of this overall approach.”

Contrave is expected to be available in pharmacies by early 2023. Patients who may be interested in taking Contrave should speak with their healthcare provider to determine if the medication is right for them and to discuss the potential benefits and risks.

With the FDA’s approval of Contrave, millions of Americans may soon have access to a new and effective tool in their fight against obesity. As the prevalence of obesity continues to rise, the approval of this medication is a significant step forward in the fight against this serious and growing public health concern.