LODONAK

LODONAK BP

 

What is this medicine?

LODONAK BP contains a fixed-dose combination of naltrexone 8 mg and bupropion 90 mg. Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist, and bupropion is an antidepressant (affecting dopamine and norepinephrine). Together, they are used as an adjunct to diet and exercise to help adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) or overweight (BMI ≥ 27) accompanied by weight-related conditions (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia) to lose weight and maintain the weight loss.

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What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to be aware if you have any of the following conditions:

• Allergy to naltrexone, bupropion, or any inactive ingredient

• A history of seizures, bulimia/anorexia, or other eating disorders

• Use of opioid medications or undergoing opioid withdrawal—naltrexone could trigger immediate withdrawal

• Severe depression, bipolar disorders, or suicidal thoughts—or concurrent antidepressant or antipsychotic therapy

• High blood pressure or cardiovascular disease

• Liver or kidney disease—especially liver disorders due to hepatotoxic risk

• Current or planned pregnancy or breastfeeding—not recommended during pregnancy; consult about risks while breastfeeding

• Insomnia—bupropion can cause sleep disturbances

Also inform about:

• Drinking alcohol or using cannabis (may increase dizziness or risk of seizures)

• Use of MAO inhibitors or other antidepressants

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How should I use this medicine?

• Initiate therapy with 1 tablet daily, and gradually increase as directed—commonly titrating to two tablets daily (morning + evening), aligning with the product guide .

• Tablets must be swallowed whole, with or without food, and not chewed or crushed—doing so increases seizure risk .

• Take the evening dose several hours before bedtime to reduce insomnia risks.

• Use this medication along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity .

• Overdosage or abrupt discontinuation can cause serious effects—seek emergency care if overdose is suspected .

• Do not share this medication with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as remembered if there is ample time before the next scheduled dose.

• If it’s close to the next dose, skip the missed one and resume your regular schedule.

• Do not double dose .

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What may interact with this medicine?

• Opioid pain medications—risk of withdrawal or overdose due to opioid receptor blockade .

• Other antidepressants, especially MAO inhibitors—risk of serious interactions .

• Medications that lower seizure threshold (e.g., antipsychotics, systemic steroids, theophylline, tramadol) .

• Drugs for blood pressure, diabetes, or cholesterol—may require adjusted doses .

• Alcohol or cannabis—increases dizziness and seizure risk .

Tell your provider about all medications, herbs, supplements, and alcohol or substance use.

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What should I watch for while using this medicine?

• Schedule regular follow-ups; if you don’t lose at least 5% of your body weight in 3 months, your provider may decide to discontinue treatment .

• Monitor blood pressure, as changes can occur .

• Watch for mood changes or suicidal thoughts, particularly early in treatment or dose changes .

• Signs of opioid withdrawal, especially if switching from opioids .

• Be alert for seizure signs, including convulsions or loss of consciousness .

• Report any sleep disturbances or insomnia—adjust evening dosing if required .

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What side effects may I notice from this medicine?

Serious—report immediately:

• Seizures

• Severe mood changes or suicidal thoughts

• High blood pressure or chest pain

• Symptoms of opioid withdrawal in those using opioids

Common mild side effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea

• Headache, dizziness, dry mouth, insomnia, sweating, flushing

• Increased heart rate (palpitations)

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Where should I keep my medicine?

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light.

• Keep it out of reach of children.

• Discard properly after the expiration date.