ProNovis

Naltrexone HCI/Bupropion HCI/Methylcobalamin Slow Release

ProNovis combines naltrexone and bupropion to work on parts of the brain responsible for appetite control and the reward system to manage food cravings. ProNovis is unique to Options Medical Weight Loss and was developed by Options’ Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Katrina Mattingly.

How it works

Naltrexone is a powerful drug that affects the body in numerous ways. Alone, naltrexone is commonly used to treat opioid and alcohol use disorder. However, studies have shown that naltrexone can be effective for weight loss. Normally, when the body is healthy and working properly, the brain sends signals that stimulate appetite and signals that let you know when you are feeling full, leading you to eat the appropriate amount of food needed to maintain weight. In patients battling obesity, these body signals don’t always work correctly. The body may send signals of hunger even after consuming food, or the body’s metabolism may slow down leading to less calories burned throughout the day. Naltrexone can help restore these signals. Data shows that opioids may play a significant role in stimulating appetite; one study revealed that participants who were taking naltrexone consumed significantly less food. These participants reported that the food was less pleasant when taking naltrexone. This may be because naltrexone reduces the endorphin release from eating food, reducing the joy found in the act of eating. When there’s less endorphin release, there’s less desire to consume, resulting in less calories and reduced appetite.

Bupropion was initially used as a medication for depression. After noticing that the side effects of this drug caused weight loss in patients, healthcare providers started to prescribe it for weight loss in conjunction with another medication, naltrexone/bupropion (Options ProNovis). Bupropion is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) allowing it to circulate in the blood stream longer; it prevents the brain from absorbing free-floating norepinephrine (adrenaline) and dopamine (the feel-good hormone). Bupropion stimulates weight loss because it acts on receptors and neurotransmitters in the brain that affect metabolism and appetite. When combined with naltrexone as ProNovis, we create an effective medication for the management of chronic obesity in adults. Bupropion is also FDA approved for smoking cessation and can be used for those who want to stop smoking and are afraid it will cause weight gain.

How it’s prescribed

ProNovis may be right for you if you have an emotionally negative relationship with food (binge eating, emotional eating, etc.) or elicit addictive traits to food, alcohol, and/or drugs, if you have issues with stimulants, if you are wanting to give up excessive alcohol use or smoking without weight gain. A typical dose starts with one capsule taken daily. Our medical provider will monitor your use of ProNovis and may slowly increase your dose if needed.

Are Weight Loss Medications a Good Fit for Me?

Our team is qualified to guide you to the correct medication based on weight loss goals, health conditions, and medical history. With any medication there are side effects and contraindications, so not everyone can qualify for our medications. However, we have a team of Provider’s in our clinic who will review your medical history and perform a physical exam prior to dispensing the medication. Your safety and happiness is our mission! At your visit you will receive a thorough overview of our medications and leave feeling confident with your treatment regimen.