An update on naltrexone/bupropion extended-release in the treatment of obesity

Introduction: As the prevalence of obesity continues to increase, the need for effective long-term treatment strategies for overweight and obesity is critical. Pharmacology fills a large treatment gap between behavioral therapy, which is insufficient for the majority of patients, and devices and surgery, which are available to only a subset of patients. Naltrexone HCl and bupropion HCl Extended-Release (naltrexone XR/bupropion XR) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for chronic weight management in 2014.

Areas covered: This review illustrates the efficacy and safety of naltrexone XR/bupropion XR by examining data from clinical trials. It also provides an overview of the market and presents the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of naltrexone and bupropion.

Expert opinion: The efficacy and safety profile of naltrexone XR/bupropion XR makes it a viable option for many patients who could benefit from its distinctive mechanism. The medication was shown to produce additive weight loss when combined with an intensive behavioral modification program and it may improve food cravings and eating behaviors. Compared to the other three antiobesity medications approved since 2012, naltrexone XR/bupropion XR is neither a controlled substance nor an injectable agent.