Contrave is taken orally with a meal, low in fat, as often as recommended by your doctor. The typical dose is 2 tablets a day. As it often prevents people from sleeping well it's not recommended that you take a dose close to bedtime.
The manufacturer recommends that you swallow the tablets whole to get the best result. Do not crush, chew or split the extended release tablets. Ingesting the entire dose whole may increase your risk of experiencing seizures.
Your dose may vary based on your conditions and history of treatment. Your dose will slowly increase to minimize side effects. Do not take extra doses as it will not improve your condition. Talking too much medicine at once may increase your risk of seizures. Do not stop taking Contrave unless recommended by your doctor.
Your doctor should provide an estimate of when you should expect results. This includes a specialized low fat meal and exercise treatment program. Inform your doctor if you do not notice weight loss after 16 weeks.