Several over-the-counter and prescription diet pills are available for overweight adults. Though not a cure for excess weight, diet pills can help you slim down. The same weight-loss pills are available for men and women, but each affects people differently. Choosing a product that suits your goals and health needs is critical. Because many weight-loss pills are ineffective and potentially dangerous, the Mayo Clinic suggests doctor's approval and guidance.
Alli
Alli is an over-the-counter weight loss pill that works as a lipase inhibitor, meaning it reduces a portion of fat from being absorbed during the digestive process. According to the Mayo Clinic, Alli can effectively improve weight loss when taken appropriately. Alli is intended as a supplementary weight loss tool, to be used in combination with physical activity and a low-fat, reduced calorie diet. Potential side effects include gas, bloating, anal leakage (oily spotting) and diarrhea. These effects tend to occur in response to excessive fat intake. If you have liver disease or liver damage, you might not be a suitable candidate for Alli. The Food and Drug Administration, as of August 2010, is investigating reports of liver problems linked with Alli use. Though Alli is available without prescription, the Mayo Clinic suggests doctor's approval prior to taking it for best potential results.
Sibutramine
Sibutramine is an FDA-approved weight-loss pill, available by prescription only. According to the Weight-control Information Network, sibutramine is one of the most frequently prescribed appetite-suppressants in the United States. If you are obese or at risk for obesity-related medication conditions, such as type 2 diabetes or heart disease, you might be a candidate for sibutramine. Sibutramine works by altering chemicals in your brain that affect your appetite and mood. The result is enhanced fullness or reduced appetite, which can make it easier for you to control portion sizes and prevent snacking between meals. Though many people take sibutramine without side effects, it can cause increased heart rate and blood pressure, according to WIN. For this reason, sibutramine is not appropriate for you if you have high blood pressure or a heart condition.
Chromium
Chromium is a mineral the body requires in trace amounts. It helps your body metabolize food. Chromium is also an ingredient in several over-the-counter dietary supplements. Though additional research is needed to determine its effectiveness in weight loss, chromium is said to increase the amount of calories you burn, decrease your appetite and enhance muscle development. According to the Mayo Clinic, as a diet pill, chromium is considered "likely safe." If you weight train regularly, or partake in other resistance training exercises, chromium can improve your results, while leading to fat reduction.
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