With so many diet pills available, it's difficult to know which are effective. Weight-loss aids and supplements aren't subject to the same standards as prescription drugs, according to MayoClinic.com. This means you have to work harder to find diet pills that are both safe and effective. However, doing your homework and partnering with your doctor will aid in finding the best over-the-counter diet pills.
Step 1
Schedule an appointment with your doctor. Over-the-counter diet pills have the potential to interact with other medications. If you take other medications, your doctor can warn you of dangerous interactions. She can also assist with setting healthy weight loss goals.
Step 2
Avoid unsafe diet pills. Bitter orange and heartleaf are very unsafe, according to MayoClinic.com. Diet pills containing the dangerous ingredient ephedra should also be avoided. This pill was found to be so dangerous, the Food and Drug Administration banned its use.
Step 3
Use over-the-counter versions of prescription drugs. Alli, which is a nonprescription form of the prescription medication orlistat, is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for weight loss. The medication works by decreasing the body's ability to absorb fat, according to MayoClinic.com. The drug is proven to cause weight loss, but it's important to discuss its use with your doctor. The Food and Drug Administration is investigating potential side effects that may affect the liver.
Step 4
Take conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA, an over-the-counter medication that may reduce body fat. It also may build muscle. This diet pill appears to be safe and effective, according to MayoClinic.com. Take the medication as directed for weight loss.
Step 5
Learn about each medication's side effects. Some diet pills have more side effects than others. Understanding this information before choosing a pill will assist in making the best decision.
Tips and Warnings
- Most over-the-counter diet pills recommend eating a healthy diet and doing regular exercise. MayoClinic.com offers a healthy pyramid weight loss tool with food recommendations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, recommends getting 150 minutes of exercise weekly. These lifestyle changes, in conjunction with over-the-counter diet pills, will assist in dropping extra pounds.
- Discontinuing the use of weight loss pills may result in weight gain. Before choosing a diet pill, read the label to learn if stopping use will cause this effect.
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