Does Contrave affect your skin? A Guide to Dermatological Side Effects

October 7, 2025 •

3 min read

In clinical trials, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) was a common dermatological side effect reported by patients taking Contrave [1.6.5]. While many people take this medication without issue, the question 'Does Contrave affect your skin?' is important, as both common and rare skin-related side effects can occur.

Quick Summary

Contrave, a weight-loss drug, can cause skin side effects ranging from common issues like excessive sweating and mild rashes to rare, severe reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome [1.2.4, 1.4.4, 1.6.5].

Key Points

Bupropion is Key: The bupropion in Contrave is often linked to its dermatological side effects, which range from common to rare [1.5.2].
Common Effects: Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), rash, itching, and hives are among the more common skin-related side effects [1.4.4, 1.6.5].
Severe Reactions are Possible: Though rare, Contrave can cause life-threatening skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and other severe allergic reactions [1.3.3, 1.6.3].
Delayed Onset: Serious skin reactions can occur weeks or even months after starting Contrave, not just at the beginning of treatment [1.3.1].
Emergency Signs: A rash accompanied by fever, blisters, peeling skin, or swelling of the face/tongue requires immediate medical attention [1.3.2, 1.3.4].
Medical Consultation is Crucial: Any new or worsening skin condition while on Contrave should be reported to a healthcare provider promptly [1.3.5].
Other Effects: Hair loss (alopecia) and hot flashes are also noted as potential, though less common, side effects [1.2.5, 1.6.5].

Understanding Contrave and Its Mechanism

Contrave is a prescription medication approved for chronic weight management in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater (obesity), or 27 or greater (overweight) with at least one weight-related comorbidity like hypertension or type 2 diabetes [1.4.8]. It combines two active ingredients: naltrexone and bupropion [1.2.3]. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, and bupropion is an antidepressant that affects dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain [1.5.5]. Together, they are thought to target the brain's reward and appetite-regulating centers to reduce hunger and control cravings [1.2.3].

The bupropion component is particularly relevant when discussing skin side effects. As an antidepressant, bupropion is known to have a range of potential dermatological effects, from common to very rare [1.5.2].

Common Skin-Related Side Effects

Users of Contrave may experience several skin-related side effects. While most are mild and may resolve as the body adjusts, it's crucial to be aware of them.

Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating): This is one of the more frequently reported skin-related side effects [1.6.5]. Patients may notice increased sweating that is not related to heat or exercise. Antidepressants, including bupropion, are known to sometimes induce excessive sweating [1.4.3].
Rash and Itching (Pruritus): A general skin rash and itching are considered possible side effects [1.3.1, 1.5.2]. This can manifest as red, itchy areas on the skin. In many cases, these rashes are mild [1.6.6].
Dry Skin (Xeroderma): Bupropion can lead to dry skin in some individuals [1.5.4].
Urticaria (Hives): Hives, which are raised, itchy welts on the skin, are a known hypersensitivity reaction to bupropion and can occur in those taking Contrave [1.3.4, 1.5.2]. The incidence of bupropion-associated urticaria is estimated to be between 1% and 2% [1.5.5].
Hot Flashes: Some users report sudden feelings of heat, which can cause flushing or redness of the skin on the upper body [1.2.5, 1.6.6].

Serious and Rare Skin Reactions

While uncommon, Contrave can cause severe skin reactions that require immediate medical attention. These reactions are often linked to the bupropion component [1.5.3].

Severe Allergic Reactions: Signs can include hives, rash, itching, fever, swollen lymph glands, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue [1.3.4, 1.6.8]. Trouble breathing or chest pain accompanying these symptoms necessitates emergency care [1.3.2].
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS): This is a rare but life-threatening medical emergency [1.2.4, 1.6.3]. It presents as a severe skin reaction with symptoms like fever, sore throat, and burning eyes, followed by a red or purple rash that spreads and blisters, causing the top layer of skin to peel [1.3.2, 1.6.4]. If any of these signs appear, treatment must be stopped, and emergency help sought immediately [1.3.3].
Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP): Another rare reaction, AGEP involves the sudden appearance of numerous small, sterile pustules on red, swollen skin, often accompanied by a fever [1.5.1].
Erythema Multiforme: Bupropion has been linked to erythema multiforme, a skin reaction that can be triggered by medications. It typically appears as target-like lesions and can, in its major form, involve mucous membranes [1.5.7, 1.5.9].

It's important to note that serious skin reactions can develop weeks to months after starting the medication [1.3.1].

Comparison of Contrave's Skin Side Effects


Side Effect Category	Specific Reaction	Frequency	Action Required
Common	Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)	Common [1.6.5]	Inform doctor if bothersome.
Common	Rash, Itching, Hives	1-10% (for bupropion) [1.5.4]	Inform doctor; seek attention for severe cases.
Uncommon	Hair Loss (Alopecia)	Uncommon (0.1% to 1%) [1.6.5]	Discuss with doctor.
Rare/Severe	Severe Allergic Reaction (Angioedema)	Rare [1.5.2]	Seek immediate medical attention.
Rare/Severe	Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)	Rare [1.6.3]	Medical Emergency. Stop medication and go to ER.
Rare/Severe	Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP)	Rare [1.5.1]	Seek immediate medical attention.

Managing Skin Side Effects

If you experience any skin changes while taking Contrave, the first step is to contact your healthcare provider. For mild side effects like dry skin or manageable sweating, they may suggest supportive care. For more concerning reactions like a widespread rash, hives, or any symptoms of a severe reaction, it's crucial to seek prompt medical evaluation [1.3.5]. Never stop or change your medication dosage without consulting your doctor.

Conclusion

So, does Contrave affect your skin? Yes, it can. The effects range from common and relatively minor issues like increased sweating and mild rashes to extremely rare but dangerous conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome [1.2.4, 1.4.4, 1.6.5]. The bupropion component of Contrave is a primary contributor to these potential dermatological reactions [1.5.2]. Patients should monitor their skin for any unusual changes and maintain open communication with their healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment for weight management.

An authoritative source for more information on Contrave is the official FDA label information [1.6.7].

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Contrave can cause skin rashes, itching, and hives. While often mild, any rash should be reported to your doctor, especially if it is accompanied by fever or blisters [1.3.1, 1.3.4].

Yes, excessive sweating, known as hyperhidrosis, is a common side effect of Contrave [1.6.5]. This is linked to its bupropion component, which can affect the body's temperature regulation [1.4.3].

Rarely, Contrave can cause serious, life-threatening skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). Symptoms include a red or purple rash that blisters and peels, often with fever. This is a medical emergency [1.2.4, 1.6.3].

Yes, alopecia, or hair loss, is listed as an uncommon side effect of Contrave, occurring in 0.1% to 1% of users in clinical studies [1.6.5].

You should contact your healthcare provider immediately. If the rash is accompanied by symptoms like fever, swelling of the face or tongue, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help right away [1.3.4, 1.3.5].

Not always. While some reactions can be immediate, serious skin reactions may happen weeks to months after you start taking the medication [1.3.1].

Yes, severe allergic reactions to Contrave are possible. Signs include rash, hives, itching, fever, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, and trouble breathing. This requires immediate medical attention [1.6.8].