Mysimba tablets: Effect, application and FAQs

Naltrexone and bupropion
This page has been reviewed by Dr. Nicolette Lammers.

Mysimba is a prescription medication used to support weight loss in adults who are obese or overweight with at least one concomitant weight-related condition. It combines two active ingredients, naltrexone and bupropion, which affect the reward system and appetite to reduce calorie intake.

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    What is Mysimba?

    Mysimba is an oral medication for long-term weight control that contains the active ingredients naltrexone and bupropion. It is used in combination with a calorie-reduced diet and increased physical activity. An additional effect of this medication is its effect on the reward system, which reduces targeted cravings and reward eating.

    Naltrexone and bupropion

    Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that affects the brain’s reward system, while bupropion is an antidepressant that increases dopamine and norepinephrine action. Together they reduce food cravings, target food cravings and help limit calorie intake.

    Location

    The Body Clinic Berlin

    Schöneberger Ufer 71
    10785 Berlin

    Public transportation (ÖPNV)

    U-Bahn – U Kurfürstenstr. (line U1)
    U-Bahn – U Mendelssohn-Bartholdy-Park (line U2)
    Bus – Gedenkstätte Dt. Widerstand (M29)
    S-Bahn – S+U Potsdamer Platz Bhf (lines S1, S2, S25 and S26)

    Accessibility: 4th floor with elevator

    Opening hours

    Monday 9:00 - 17:00
    Tuesday 9:00 - 17:00
    Wednesday 9:00 - 17:00
    Thursday 9:00 - 17:00
    Friday 9:00 - 17:00
    Saturday (telemedicine only) 10:00 - 18:00
    Sunday (telemedicine only) 10:00 - 18:00

    Who developed Mysimba?

    Manufacturer

    Mysimba was developed by Orexigen Therapeutics and is marketed in Europe by various pharmaceutical companies.

    Availability

    Mysimba was approved in the European Union in 2015 and is available on prescription in several countries. It is offered in tablet form, but is currently only available in Germany via individual import. Therefore, we at The Body Clinic do not show prices for the programs with Mysimba. If you are interested, please contact us.

    For which indications is Mysimba approved?

    Mysimba is approved for adults with the following indications:

    • Overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related concomitant disease such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes

    • Obesity (BMI ≥30).

    Although Mysimba is generally approved in Germany, it is currently only available via individual import (see “Availability”).

    Who is Mysimba suitable for?

    Mysimba is suitable for adults who are obese or overweight, who have significant health risks and for whom dietary changes and exercise alone are not sufficient.

    How does Mysimba work?

    Mysimba works through the combination of naltrexone and bupropion, which affect the central nervous system:

    • Bupropion stimulates the dopamine system and can reduce cravings.

    • Naltrexone blocks reward signals associated with food intake and thus reduces the craving for high-calorie foods.

    Dosage and application

    The recommended dosage is increased gradually:

    • Week 1: 1 tablet in the morning

    • Week 2: 1 tablet in the morning and 1 in the evening

    • Week 3: 2 tablets in the morning and 1 in the evening

    • From week 4: 2 tablets in the morning and 2 in the evening

    The tablets should be taken with water and preferably with meals. A missed dose should not be taken afterwards.

    Where can I buy Mysimba?

    Mysimba is only available in pharmacies with a doctor’s prescription. However, it is currently only imported and sold in Germany via individual imports. Important: We advise against dubious offers, especially from online-only distributors from abroad. Due to possible side effects, Mysimba should only be taken under medical supervision.

    Prices for Mysimba

    The cost of Mysimba varies according to pack size and pharmacy. Patients should contact their pharmacy or doctor for information on current costs.

    What are the possible side effects?

    Common side effects are:

    • Nausea
    • Headache
    • Loss of concentration
    • Insomnia
    • Dizziness

    Rare but serious side effects can include an increase in blood pressure or epileptic seizures. If serious symptoms occur, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

    Security from Mysimba

    Mysimba was approved by the European Commission on the recommendation of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and meets strict safety and efficacy requirements. It is used for weight loss in adults who are overweight or obese. However, there are risks, especially serious side effects in combination with opioids. Therefore, Mysimba should only be used under medical supervision and in accordance with the prescribing guidelines.

    Interactions and contraindications

    Mysimba may interact with certain medications, especially antidepressants, opioids and antihypertensive drugs. It should not be taken with:
    • Uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension)
    • Epilepsy
    • Opioid use or dependence
    • Simultaneous intake of medications that interact with Mysimba (medical consultation required)
    • Alcohol consumption, as this can increase the risk of serious complications
    Patients should consult their doctor before use, especially if they have a history of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease or depression. Mysimba is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

    Differences between Mysimba and other medications

    Mysimba vs. Saxenda

    Saxenda is an injectable GLP-1 drug, while Mysimba is an oral combination of two active ingredients. Saxenda acts directly on the satiety center, while Mysimba has more of an effect on the reward system.

    Mysimba vs. Wegovy

    Wegovy contains semaglutide and is injected once a week, while Mysimba is taken daily as a tablet. Both drugs reduce appetite, but through different mechanisms of action.

    Mysimba vs. Ozempic

    Ozempic contains semaglutide and is injected weekly, while Mysimba is taken daily as a tablet. Ozempic regulates blood sugar and promotes a feeling of satiety, while Mysimba influences the reward system in the brain to control eating behavior.

    Does health insurance cover Mysimba?

    Reimbursement depends on the health insurance company and the medical indication. Patients should obtain information directly from their health insurance provider.

    How can I stop taking Mysimba?

    The dose should be gradually reduced under medical supervision in order to minimize possible side effects.

    Package insert

    If you would like more information, you can always read the package leaflet to find out everything you need to know about Mysimba.


    Frequently asked questions (FAQ) Mysimba

    With Mysimba, patients can lose an average of around 1 kg per week. However, the actual result varies from person to person and depends on individual factors. The effect of Mysimba is most effective when it is combined with a permanent lifestyle change, including a healthy diet and regular exercise.

    Mysimba may only be prescribed by a doctor. This requires a personal consultation during which the patient's state of health is thoroughly assessed.

    The costs vary depending on the pack size and supplier. In Germany, Mysimba is currently only imported and distributed via individual imports. Therefore, we at The Body Clinic do not show any prices for the programs with Mysimba. If you are interested, please contact us

    Both drugs have different mechanisms of action. The choice depends on the individual situation and the doctor's recommendation.

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