Skip to main content
RxCopaysGet started

Affordability Check

How to afford Contrave Extended-Release

Generic name: naltrexone hydrochloride and bupropion hydrochloride

Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get Contrave Extended-Release — your insurance copay, manufacturer savings, charity grants, or cash price. It takes 30 seconds and we never ask for your personal information.

How are you covered for prescriptions?

Pick the one that fits you. We'll show you the cheapest way to get this drug.

Pick an option above to see your specific path.

Different insurance means different laws and different savings. For example, Medicare patients cannot use manufacturer copay cards (federal law) — but the manufacturer almost always has a Patient Assistance Program that gives the drug free.

About Contrave Extended-Release and its cost

What is this medication? Contrave extended-release is a prescription medication used to help adults who are struggling with obesity or who are overweight with weight-related medical problems lose weight and keep it off. It is a combination of two medicines: naltrexone, which is an opioid antagonist, and bupropion, which is an antidepressant. Doctors generally prescribe this medication for individuals with a body mass index of 30 or greater, or a body mass index of 27 or greater if the person also has conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.

The medication functions by targeting parts of the brain involved in the regulation of food intake, specifically the hypothalamus and the mesolimbic reward system. This dual action helps to reduce hunger while also suppressing cravings for food. To achieve the best results, Contrave must be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and a regular exercise program. It is designed for long-term weight management rather than a quick fix for minor weight loss.

Contrave Extended-Release is made by Currax. Like most brand-name drugs, it's priced at a high list price — but patients rarely pay that list price. The options above are the real paths most people use to get it affordably.

Common questions

What's the cheapest way to afford Contrave Extended-Release?

It depends on your insurance. On Medicare, apply for the manufacturer's Patient Assistance Program (PAP) — it gives the drug free if you meet income requirements. With private insurance, the manufacturer copay card usually drops your copay to $0-$25. Uninsured patients should compare the PAP with Cost Plus Drugs cash price.

Can I use a copay card with Medicare for Contrave Extended-Release?

No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Currax has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.

Does my Medicare Part D plan cover Contrave Extended-Release?

Part D coverage varies by plan. We query the CMS Prescription Drug Plan file to show you what percentage of plans cover it and at what tier. For your exact copay, pick "Medicare" above and check your plan's Summary of Benefits, or log in to Medicare.gov.

How long does a Patient Assistance Program take?

Most PAPs take 2-6 weeks from application to first fill. Ask the manufacturer about a "bridge supply" — many will ship 30 days free while your application is being reviewed so you don't go without the drug.

What if I have a high-deductible plan?

For generics, Cost Plus Drugs cash price is often cheaper than your deductible-phase copay. For brand names, the manufacturer copay card almost always wins. A GoodRx coupon can be a last resort for uncovered drugs, but it doesn't count toward your deductible.

Are there charity grants for Obesity?

Charities like HealthWell Foundation, PAN Foundation, Good Days, and the National Organization for Rare Disorders provide copay help for specific conditions. Funds often run out mid-year — apply early. We list the specific grants for your condition in the options above.

More about Contrave Extended-Release