The idea of taking a pill to lose weight is appealing to many. But, can these pills replace a proper diet and physical activity? Even more, are these pills safe to be taking?
This week alone the FDA has rejected two experimental diet pills. Qnexa, touted as the most promising diet pill in over a decade, was rejected because panelists (experts picked by the FDA) said the drug was associated with a variety of side effects including suicidal thoughts, memory lapses, heart palpitations and birth defects. Lorcaserin, the other drug rejected this week, was declined due to a lack of meaningful weight loss and cancer findings in rats with an unknown impact on people.
With that being said, let’s take a look at a few the more popular over-the-counter drugs that have made it to the market and see if these diet pills work or not.
Alli
Is it effective? Yes, weight-loss amounts typically less for OTC versus prescription
Is it safe? The FDA is investigating reports of liver injury
Bitter orange
Is it effective? Unknown; Insufficient reliable evidence to rate its effectiveness
Is it safe? Possibly unsafe
Chitosan
Is it effective? Unknown; Insufficient reliable evidence to rate its effectiveness
Is it safe? Possibly safe
Chromium
Is it effective? Unknown; Insufficient reliable evidence to rate its effectiveness
Is it safe? Likely safe
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)
Is it effective? Possibly effective
Is it safe? Possibly safe
Country mallow (heartleaf)
Is it effective? Unknown; Insufficient reliable evidence to rate its effectiveness
Is it safe? Banned by FDA
Ephedra
Is it effective? Possibly effective
Is it safe? Likely unsafe and banned by FDA
Green tea extract
Is it effective? Unknown; Insufficient reliable evidence to rate its effectiveness
Is it safe? Possibly safe
Guar gum
Is it effective? Possibly ineffective
Is it safe? Likely safe
Hoodia
Is it effective? Unknown; Insufficient reliable evidence to rate its effectiveness
Is it safe? Insufficient information
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/weight-loss/HQ01160/
October 29th, 2010
**Important note: Check the FDA website for safety and recall information concerning any drug before taking. Also, check with your doctor before taking any supplement or drug.
Since the U.S. obesity rates among adults is nearing 35 percent, public health officials and doctors alike are looking for new weight-loss options. Probably more so are the drug companies, who could reach record profit levels if they can develop a safe and effective weight loss pill.
The reality is, however, that no magic weight loss pill can replace a healthy balanced diet and physical exercise. Forget about miracle pills and the current weight loss fad and start making healthy, yet small changes to your lifestyle. Not just temporary changes to your diet, but permanent changes to your lifestyle!
Confused about where to begin? Download our free low calorie diet plan or check out our Simple, Proven Plan For Weight Loss & Control Complete Package to learn exactly how to create a healthy lifestyle for weight loss and improved health!
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