Description

How Does Mysimba (Naltrexone/Bupropion) Work?

Mysimba affects the areas of the brain responsible for regulating food intake and appetite control. By combining two active ingredients:

• Naltrexone: an opioid receptor antagonist
• Bupropion: a dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor

Together, these ingredients reduce your hunger, control cravings, and help you feel fuller with less food, which assists in weight loss efforts.

Who is Mysimba Suitable For?

Mysimba is prescribed for adults with:

• A BMI of 30 or more (obese), or
• A BMI of 27 or more (overweight) with associated conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

Mysimba should always be used in combination with a calorie-controlled diet and increased physical activity for optimal results. It is important to note that Mysimba is not available over the counter; it requires a prescription.

How to Take Mysimba

Mysimba is available as a tablet, taken with food. The dosage increases gradually over the first four weeks to help your body adjust:

• Week 1: 1 tablet in the morning
• Week 2: 1 tablet in the morning and 1 in the evening
• Week 3: 2 tablets in the morning and 1 in the evening
• Week 4 onwards: 2 tablets in the morning and 2 in the evening

Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets. Swallow them whole with water.

Expected Results

Mysimba is designed to start working immediately, but it may take a few weeks to notice the effects. If a 5% reduction in body weight has not been achieved after 16 weeks, your doctor may recommend discontinuing treatment. For those who combine Mysimba with a healthy diet and exercise, weight loss can range between 3.7-5.7% of initial body weight.

Who Should Not Take Mysimba?

Mysimba is not suitable for everyone and should not be used if you:

• Have uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Have a history of seizures
• Have an eating disorder like bulimia or anorexia
• Have severe liver or kidney disease
• Are taking other medications containing Bupropion
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a history of bipolar disorder
• Are currently taking antidepressants or opioid analgesics

Mysimba should also be avoided if you are undergoing benzodiazepine or alcohol withdrawal.

Side Effects of Mysimba

As with any medication, Mysimba can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Constipation
• Hot flushes
• Anxiety
• Changes in blood pressure
• Tiredness
• Sweating

Serious side effects such as seizures, hallucinations, or chest pain should be treated as medical emergencies. You should consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Warnings and Interactions

There are several conditions and medications that can interact with Mysimba, making it less effective or unsafe. You should avoid Mysimba if you are taking:

• Antidepressants
• Opioid medications
• Anti-epileptics
• Medication for HIV
• Parkinson’s disease treatments

Always disclose your full medical history and any medications you are taking to your healthcare provider to ensure Mysimba is safe for you.

Combining Mysimba with Lifestyle Changes

For the best results, Mysimba should be taken alongside a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Your healthcare professional will guide you in creating a weight loss plan tailored to your needs, ensuring a holistic approach to weight management.

Mysimba vs Other Weight Loss Medications

If Mysimba isn’t suitable for you, there are alternative weight loss medications available:

• Xenical (Orlistat): Reduces the amount of fat your body absorbs from food. It works differently from Mysimba and is available over the counter.
• Saxenda: An injectable medication that mimics the hormone GLP-1, helping you feel fuller for longer.
• Alli: A lower-dose version of Xenical, available without a prescription but less effective than prescription-strength alternatives like Mysimba or Saxenda.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I take Mysimba with other weight loss medications?
Mysimba should not be combined with other weight loss medications unless recommended by a healthcare professional, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

2. Can I drink alcohol while taking Mysimba?
You should avoid or limit alcohol consumption while on Mysimba, as it may increase certain risks, such as seizures or dizziness.

3. How long can I take Mysimba?
Mysimba is prescribed for long-term use, but if you do not lose at least 5% of your starting weight within 16 weeks, your doctor may recommend stopping the treatment.

4. How do I buy Mysimba?
Mysimba is only available with a prescription and can be ordered online through Trim Healthcare’s online pharmacy after completing an online health consultation.

Important Information

• Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider when taking Mysimba.
• This medication is for personal use only—never share it with others.
• Regular monitoring of your blood pressure and mental health is necessary while taking Mysimba.
• Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any severe side effects.

How to Get Mysimba

Mysimba is available on prescription and can be ordered through Trim Healthcare. Begin by filling out an online consultation form, and our healthcare professionals will review your eligibility. If appropriate, your medication will be dispensed and delivered to your door.