WEIGHT LOSS & DIET PILLS
Question: Do diet pills like Metabolife and Xenadrine really work for permanent weight loss?
Answer: No. Unfortunately there is no magic pill for permanent weight loss.
Recommendations for successful weight loss include following a balanced, reduced- calorie diet, exercising, behavioral therapy, and sometimes medications. At the moment, there are only two drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight loss. These are Meridia (sibutramine) and Xenical (orlistat). Even the proper use of prescribed medications does not guarantee permanent weight loss. Many people lose weight only to find that they regain it shortly thereafter. Therefore, a weight maintenance program is suggested to help keep the weight off.
Many over-the-counter herbal products are touted as weight loss products. These include ma huang (Chinese ephedra), caffeine, chitosan, and combination products like Metabolife and Xenadrine. Many of these compounds are untested and are linked to health risks. Adverse effects that may be caused by diet pills include insomnia, hypertension, palpitations, dizziness, and being jittery. Some of these drugs can even be life-threatening. Most physicians do not support the use of such products, and would suggest other methods for losing weight.
Remember that it is always best to discuss your weight loss plans with your doctor. If you are trying to lose weight, speak to your doctor before using any over-the-counter supplements. The risks of such products can outweigh the benefits in the end.
