The Effects of Coffee on Contrave
Coffee and Contrave are both drugs widely used for weight management. While coffee can aid in managing obesity, Contrave is an anti-obesity medication prescribed to people who are overweight or obese. Both drugs work differently and it is important to understand how they interact before combining them.
Coffee is a popular stimulant that many people take daily to increase concentration, alertness and energy. It contains natural compounds such as caffeine, which is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. Caffeine has been found to increase alertness and improve cognitive performance in lower doses, however is not recommended for extended use.
Contrave is a prescription weight loss drug that works on neurotransmitters in the brain and has not been linked with any direct risks if taken as directed. Its main compounds are bupropion, an antidepressant, and naltrexone, an opioid antagonist. Together they stimulate serotonin and dopamine receptors, which activates the reward pathways in the brain and decreases food cravings.
It is not recommended to combine caffeine and Contrave as they can cause increased heart rate and worsened anxiety. Caffeine can increase the effects of bupropion, which has been known to cause irritability, anxiety and restlessness. Consuming large amounts of caffeine in combination with Contrave has the potential to increase the negative side effects of the medication. Furthermore, the combined effect of the two drugs can cause insomnia, a common side effect of Contrave.
Experts suggest that people who take Contrave should begin by cutting their caffeine intake, or avoiding it altogether. This can help avoid any potential negative interactions. People who are already taking Contrave should consult their doctor before consuming any type of caffeinated beverage.
Healthcare providers recommend that people taking Contrave and coffee should ensure that total caffeine intake does not exceed 200mg a day and that coffee isn’t consumed within 8 hours of taking the medication.
If you do opt to take Contrave with coffee, it’s important to be aware of the potential interactions and the effects the combination can have on your body. When in doubt, it’s best to consult your doctor to determine what’s right for you.
Understanding Dosage
The dosage of Contrave should always be discussed with a doctor before it is taken. The standard dosage of Contrave is one pill twice a day; this can be increased to two pills twice a day after 12 weeks if the individual has not lost at least 5% of their body weight. The recommended dosage of coffee consumption is not more than 200 mg per day.
Coffee consumption can also be limited by adherence to certain dietary rules. For instance, reducing the consumption of highly processed foods, eating smaller portions and reducing sugary snacks can help limit coffee intake as well. Additionally, making sure to drink plenty of water helps to flush out the caffeine from the body and reduce its effects.
Regular exercise can also be beneficial for those taking Contrave. Increasing exercise helps to increase endorphins released in the brain which make people feel better mentally. As a result, if someone takes Contrave and exercise regularly it can reduce the chances of cravings linked with coffee or other foods.
Possible Interactions
As previously mentioned, caffeine and Contrave can interact in a negative way. It is recommended that individuals talk to their healthcare professional before taking Contrave and coffee together. Interactions can lead to an increase in side effects with both drugs, specifically those that affect the CNS such as dizziness, nausea, head-aches and anxiety.
Additionally, those taking Contrave with coffee are at a greater risk for high blood pressure. This is because caffeine in coffee can increase heart rate and blood pressure. If combined with Contrave, this can further contribute to a high blood pressure condition.
Benefits Of Coffee
Despite the risks, some studies suggest that coffee consumption may have positive aspects when taken in conjunction with Contrave. Coffee can provide an added sense of alertness and focus, which can be beneficial when taken in lower doses alongside Contrave. Additionally, coffee can improve concentration and can even increase fat burning.
Coffee can also improve cognitive functioning and help reduce fatigue when taken with the correct dosage. It has been found to be protective against some diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and dementia. Coffee can also provide overall energy and improve metabolism, which can be especially useful for those who are taking Contrave.
Coffee Alternatives
For those looking to reduce their coffee intake while taking Contrave, there are several alternatives available to get an energy boost. Green tea, for example, is a great substitute for traditional coffee as it contains lower levels of caffeine and contains antioxidants, which can provide a variety of health benefits.
Vegetable juices are also higher in nutrients than coffee and can provide an energy kick, though it is important to be mindful of sugars, sodium, and preservatives found in some store-bought juices. Additionally, herbal teas like lavender, chamomile and peppermint tea can provide a calming effect and prevent cravings.
When to Avoid Coffee
Coffee consumption should be avoided when taking Contrave if the individual experiences certain side effects or if the medication isn’t working as intended. If the individual is feeling restlessness, irritation, anxiety or dizziness, it is important to talk to their doctor about adjusting the dosage or changing to an alternative medication.
In some cases, such as those with high blood pressure, caffeine can be particularly dangerous and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before combining Contrave with coffee.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to understand the effects of combining caffeine and Contrave before making the decision to take them together. It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before beginning any new medications, and to follow all instructions carefully.
