In a nutshell
This study investigated the combination of two drugs, naltrexone and bupropion (Contrave), in the management of type 2 diabetes.
Some background
Diabetes is a disease characterized by chronically high blood sugar levels. Being overweight contributes to the development of diabetes, and may increase the risk of serious complications associated with diabetes. Studies have shown that moderate weight reduction, even by just 5% of the body weight, can significantly reduce the risk of diabetic complications. Unfortunately, several medications used in the treatment of diabetes may also cause weight gain. Recent animal studies have suggested that the combination of naltrexone and bupropion (Contrave) may reduce appetite and improve body weight control among diabetic patients. Naltrexone and bupropion are drugs normally used for the treatment of depression and smoking or alcohol addiction.
Methods & findings
This study included 505 overweight type 2 diabetic patients. 335 patients were assigned to receive contrave, while 170 patients received a placebo (a fake medication with no physical effects). All patients continued taking their regularly prescribed medications and received dietary and exercise counseling in addition to treatment. Patient's weight, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol were monitored for a period of 56 weeks.
At the end of the trial, patients in the contrave group lost an average of 5% of their body weight, compared to only 1.8% among patients in the placebo group. Furthermore, 44.5% of patients in the contrave group lost 5% or more of their body weight, compared to only 18.9% of patients in the placebo group. Both blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels were significantly improved in patients receiving contrave compared to patients receiving a placebo. However, contrave was more likely to cause side effects such as nausea, especially in patients also receiving metformin (Glucophage).
The bottom line
This study concluded that naltrexone–bupropion combination therapy (Contrave) may assist diabetic patients with weight loss, as well as help manage blood sugar levels.
The fine print
Several of the authors of this article have received funds from, or are employed by, Orexigen Therapeutics, which is developing Contrave.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits of naltrexone–bupropion combination therapy in the management of diabetes.
Published By :
Diabetes Care
Date :
Oct 21, 2013
