OTC Weight Loss Meds

Losing and maintaining weight loss can be a difficult task and may be a lifelong battle. For this reason, there is a plethora of over-the-counter pills marketed as weight-loss supplements. Not all over-the-counter weight loss pills have to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration, so it is hard to prove their safety and effectiveness. Speak with a doctor before taking any weight-loss supplements.

Alli

Alli is the only FDA-approved over-the-counter weight-loss medication available. It is a lower-dose version of the prescription medication orlistat. It is classified as a lipase inhibitor that decreases the absorption of fats in the stomach. It works by blocking the enzyme lipase, which breaks down fats in foods so they can be absorbed. The undigested fats are then excreted from the body through the stools. Reducing fat absorption helps limit the amount of calories consumed per meal and contributes to weight loss. Side effects include decreased fat-soluble vitamin absorption, diarrhea, anal discharge and increased bowel movements. The FDA is investigating reports of liver injury while using Alli, according to MayoClinic.com.

Bitter Orange

Bitter orange is a tree native to Africa and Asia for which the dried fruit and peel are used as a dietary supplement for weight loss, among other uses. It is available as an extract or in tablet and capsule form to be taken by mouth. As a weight-loss supplement, bitter orange acts as a stimulant to increase the number of calories burned, but scientific evidence has yet to prove this claim, according to MayoClinic.com. Side effects of bitter orange include increased heart rate and blood pressure, and it should not be used in individuals with heart conditions because it may increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Chitosan

Chitosan is used as an oral supplement for weight loss but has other uses as well. There is some evidence that chitosan can assist in short-term weight loss, but the benefits have not been shown across all studies to determine its effectiveness. According to MayoClinic.com, chitosan works by blocking the absorption of dietary fat. Chitosan comes from the shells of shellfish such as shrimp, lobster and clams. Chitosan may interact with fat-soluble vitamins or cause constipation, gas and gastrointestinal upset, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

Chromium

Chromium is a mineral that is required by the body only in trace amounts. It serves a variety of important functions, such as energy metabolism and enhancing the actions of insulin. Chromium supplements may contribute to weight loss by increasing the number of calories you burn, decreasing appetite and increasing lean muscle mass, according to MayoClinic.com. Few side effects are associated with chromium intake, but chromium supplements may interact with certain medications, such as antacids, corticosteroids, beta-blockers, insulin and NSAIDs, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid

Conjugated linoleic acid is a type of polyunsaturated fat found in foods such as meat and dairy products. It is used in cancer prevention and treatment, high cholesterol and weight loss. Conjugated linoleic acid may contribute to weight loss by reducing body fat and enhancing lean muscle mass, according to MayoClinic.com. Side effects of conjugated linoleic acid may include increased insulin resistance and blood sugar levels, increase potassium and decreased blood platelets, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.