Cellulite is a common challenge for people struggling with weight issues. Cellulite occurs when the collagen fibers responsible for connecting fat to the skin stretch or are pulled tight, according to MayoClinic.com. Although weight loss won't erase cellulite altogether, it will improve the skin's appearance. Diet pills may assist in dropping extra pounds.
How It Works
The most effective way to minimize the appearance of cellulite is through weight loss. If lifestyle changes aren't effective in getting rid of extra pounds, diet pills may assist in losing up to 10 percent of your starting weight, according to MayoClinic.com. Weight loss, in conjunction with a healthy diet and physical activity, improves the appearance of dimpling in skin.
Nonprescription Diet Pills
There are dozens of nonprescription weight loss pills on the market, however, a couple appear safe and effective, according to MayoClinic.com. Alli, an over-the-counter version of prescription medication orlistat, appears to be effective in decreasing the absorption of dietary fat.
Conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA, is another medication that may be effective. CLA appears to work by reducing body fat and promoting muscle growth.
Prescription Diet Pills
If your body mass index is higher than 27, a weight-loss pill might be an option. Body mass index can be calculated at the MayoClinic.com BMI calculator. Short-term prescription diet pills work to reduce appetite. Phentermine and diethylpropion are approved by the Food and Drug Administration for up to 12 weeks of use.
Orlistat is the only long-term diet pill approved by the Food and Drug Administration for weight loss. The drug works to prevent fat absorption in the intestines.
Considerations
Diet pills should be taken in conjunction with healthy diet and exercise modifications. Healthy adults need 2 1/2 hours of moderate intensity activity or 1 hour, 15 minutes of vigorous activity each week, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You also need two days of strength training to burn calories quicker and tone the body.
Warnings
The Food and Drug Administration is investigating orlistat and Alli for side effects that may affect the liver. Although a connection between the drug and liver issues hasn't been found yet, it's important to partner with your doctor. Your physician can monitor your health and make sure taking diet pills is right for your situation.
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