Xenadrine is an over-the-counter diet supplement containing a blend of nutrients, amino acids and herbal ingredients. In combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise, Xenadrine may help encourage weight loss, though it hasn't been approved by the FDA for this purpose. Understanding the effects and limitations of Xenadrine diet products allows consumers to maximize benefits and reduce the likelihood of side effects.
Types
Xenadrine diet products come in three main formulations. Xenadrine ULTRA and Xenadrine ULTRA drink mix contain caffeine in the form of green coffee extract, while Xenadrine ULTRA 99% Caffeine-Free contains no caffeine.
Past formulations of Xenadrine included the prescription Xenadrine RFA-1, which contained the herbal stimulant ephedra, and over-the-counter Xenadrine EFX, both of which have been discontinued.
Ingredients
Xenadrine diet products contain a combination of vitamins, minerals and herbal compounds. Nutrients found in Xenadrine include thiamine, riboflavin, calcium, niacin, B6, B12 and pantothenic acid.
The main active ingredient in Xenadrine ULTRA is green coffee extract --- a natural source of caffeine. It also contains caffeine anhydrous for additional energy and metabolic stimulation. Other ingredients include the amino acid PABA and phytosterol complex. Xenadrine ULTRA 99% Caffeine-Free contains all the same ingredients as the regular formulation minus the caffeine.
Effects
Xenadrine.com states individuals taking green coffee extract in a 60-day study lost roughly 10.95 lbs. compared with a 5.40-lb. weight loss in the placebo group. Though the ingredients in Xenadrine may help boost weight loss initially, the supplement has not been approved by the FDA for weight loss and is not a substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Weight loss resulting from green coffee extract likely stems from caffeine, which acts as a mild stimulant by raising heart rate and suppressing appetite.
Side Effects
Like all supplements, Xenadrine may cause side effects in some people. Xenadrine products containing caffeine are more likely to cause side effects in those who are sensitive to the substance. According to Medline Plus, excessive caffeine intake may cause nausea, anxiety, insomnia and rapid heart rate. Furthermore, abruptly stopping caffeine-containing products like Xenadrine ULTRA can lead to withdrawal symptoms like headache, irritability and drowsiness.
Interactions with other common supplements and medications may also occur while taking Xenadrine. The caffeine in Xenadrine can interact negatively with other stimulants like pseudoephedrine, increasing the risk for side effects.
Safety Precautions
To reduce the risk of side effects while taking Xenadrine, limit your consumption of caffeine from other sources and tell your doctor about any medications you take before trying the supplement.
If you're sensitive to caffeine, choosing the caffeine-free version of Xenadrine can help prevent side effects associated with the substance. Always follow dosing directions carefully and stop using Xenadrine if you experience persistent or bothersome side effects.
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