According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), approximately 7 percent of adults in the U.S. take over-the-counter weight-loss supplements. There are a variety of slimming tablets from which to choose at your area drug store or health food outlet. The Mayo Clinic says there is no proof to substantiate claims that non-prescription dietary aids are safe and effective. There are a number of undesirable and potentially serious side effects connected to both over-the-counter and prescription slimming tablets.
Side Effects Summary
There is a long list of slimming tablets including Phentermine, Kava and Solidax ADX. There is an overabundance of potential side effects linked to diet pills. They are fatigue, insomnia, nervousness, dry mouth, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, headaches, heart palpitations and fever.
The more serious side effects linked to weight loss pills are congestive heart failure, heart attack are stroke, intestinal problems, blurred vision and urinary tract abnormalities.
Prescription Pills Side Effects
According to the Mayo Clinic, the Food and Drug Administration has approved only two prescription drugs (Siburamine/Meridia and Orlistat/Xenical) for long-term weight loss.
The side effects associated with Siburamin are headaches, a rise in blood pressure, dry mouth, constipation and sleep disturbance. People with a history of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke or irregular heartbeat should not take Siburamine.
The list of side effects connected to Orlistat are abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating and recurrent oily bowel movements.
Alli is the less potent over-the-counter version of Orlistat (Xenical). It can be purchased by overweight adults 18 years and over. Side effects of Alli include diarrhea, gas and a slight increase in blood pressure.
Precautions
People should use slimming tablets under the supervision of a doctor. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding should not take diet pills. Be sure to take weight loss tablets only as directed. Overdoses can result in tremors, confusion, hallucinations, convulsions and even heart attack.
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