How Bupropion and Naltrexone May Support Mood, Cravings, and Consistency: Research, Reviews & Provider Use

Carson @ Eden

May 2, 2025

Last Updated:

Weight Loss

10 min read

Explore how bupropion and naltrexone may support mood, appetite, and consistency. Review Contrave® research, hear real user insights, and learn about Eden’s provider-directed compounded MedKits.

Key takeaways

The combination of bupropion and naltrexone is FDA-approved as Contrave® for chronic weight management when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Eden offers compounded formulations of these ingredients through licensed providers. These formulations are not FDA-approved and are customized to individual needs.
Some users report support for mood, energy, and eating habits under provider supervision. These effects are observational and may differ from outcomes seen in Contrave® clinical trials.
Eden’s provider-directed MedKits may also include supplements designed to support metabolic function, consistency, and wellness, based on patient needs and provider discretion.*

*These statements are based on mechanisms of action and user-reported experience. They have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Why Are These Two Medications Combined?

Bupropion is FDA-approved for depression and smoking cessation. It acts on norepinephrine and dopamine pathways, which may:

Support mood regulation
Encourage consistent routines
Support mindful eating habits*

Naltrexone, approved for alcohol and opioid dependence, may in lower doses:

Modulate brain reward pathways
Help reduce persisten cravings associated with routine behaviors*
Support appetite awareness*

*These statements are based on known mechanisms of action and early observational data. These uses have not been reviewed or approved by the FDA for weight management.

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Important safety information

Greenway et al., 2010 – The Lancet: In one trial, Contrave® (bupropion + naltrexone) combined with behavioral support led to 5–10% weight loss over 6–12 months in some participants. These results were observed in FDA trials of Contrave®, not Eden’s compounded kits.

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Eden’s Customized, Licensed Healthcare Provider-Guided Approach to Weight Support

Eden’s licensed providers may prescribe a compounded formulation of bupropion and naltrexone, sourced from state-licensed compounding pharmacies. These prescriptions are customized based on individual needs and are not FDA-approved.

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Feature	Eden Medkits (Custom)	Contrave® (FDA-approved)
Dose	Provider-tailored	Fixed (32mg NTX / 360mg BUP)
Form	Compounded capsules	Branded tablets
FDA-reviewed?	No	Yes
Use Case	May support mood, appetite, and energy*	Chronic weight management

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Eden’s compounded medications are not approved for weight loss.

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User Experiences & Observations

Many Eden users describe outcomes similar to those reported in Contrave® reviews:

Commonly Reported Benefits:

“I had fewer cravings during the day.”
“I didn’t feel like I was on a diet—it just felt easier to choose well.”
“More energy and less food obsession.”

Reported Side Effects:

Mild nausea (often transient)
Headache, insomnia, or dry mouth
Gastrointestinal discomfort

Eden’s approach includes a gradual titration plan (4–6 weeks) and may incorporate supplements such as inositol, L-carnitine, B6, and B12 to support tolerability.

Individual results may vary. These experiences do not reflect outcomes for all users.

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Who Might Be a Candidate?

A provider may consider this approach if you:

Seek support for behaviorally driven eating habits
Prefer a non-injectable, non-stimulant option
Want to support mood and consistency during a health plateau
Are looking to maintain progress after a GLP-1 medication program

Important Disclaimers

Contrave® is the only FDA-approved combination of bupropion + naltrexone for weight management.
Eden’s compounded formulations are not FDA-approved and are prescribed based on licensed healthcare provider discretion.
All medications are filled by third-party, state-licensed compounding pharmacies.
Eden does not manufacture, compound, or dispense medication.
Always consult your licensed medical provider before starting or changing any plan.

Ready to Learn More?

Take the 2-minute Eden assessment to see if Eden’s provider-guided MedKits may help support your wellness goals, mood, and eating habits.

Q: Is Eden’s version the same as Contrave®?
A: No. While both contain the same active ingredients—bupropion and naltrexone—Eden’s MedKits are compounded and customized by licensed providers based on individual needs. These compounded formulations differ from Contrave® in dose, form, and regulatory status. Contrave® is an FDA-approved medication for chronic weight management; Eden’s compounded MedKits are not FDA-approved and are prescribed solely at the discretion of your licensed healthcare provider.

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Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.