Many diet pill ads promise quick weight loss through the means of safe, or even natural, substances. "Newsweek" magazine reports that some of these types of products make claims that users will lose an extreme amount of weight in a short time, without any health risks. "Newsweek" also notes that most of these claims are not only untrue, but many of these diet pills can actually be dangerous, while others will provide no results at all.
Unknown Risks
The Food and Drug Administration reports that the agency found 69 diet products sold over the counter that contain potentially dangerous substances not listed on the manufacturer's ingredients list. Many of these added substances can be unsafe, and because you have no idea that you are even taking them, there is no telling how they will affect your health. The FDA reports that these substances include rimonabant, a substance that is not FDA-approved in the United States; phenytoin, an anti-seizure medication; phenolphthalein, which is used in chemical experiments and a possible carcinogen; and bumetanide, a diuretic.
Heart Problems
The FDA reports that users can be at risk for high blood pressure, seizures, rapid heartbeat, palpitations, heart attacks and stroke from diet pills that are sold over the counter and are unmonitored. The FDA cites the pills that contain sibutramine as an example; this substance has been shown to have adverse heart effects. Additionally, sibutramine can interfere with other prescription medications, causing further possible risks.
Testing Positive for Amphetamines
"Newsweek" reports that two Brazilian diet pills, Emagrece Sim and Herbathin, contained fenproporex. This drug is not approved for use in the United States because it converts into an amphetamine while in your body. Along with health and heart dangers, this chemical can cause you to test positive for amphetamines during drug tests, which may result job loss or difficulty in getting hired for new positions.
Depression
Depression or suicidal thoughts can be side effects from the substances found in some of these diet pills, according to the FDA. One such substance is rimonabant, which is approved for use in Europe, but not the United States. The FDA reports that in Europe this substance has been tied to five deaths and 720 adverse reactions within the last two years.
Member Comments