Most over-the-counter weight loss supplements haven't been properly studied, so it's hard to estimate just how effective or safe they are. Also, supplements rarely come with a suggested diet or exercise plan, but changes in both the way you eat and exercise are necessary if you want to keep the weight off long term. Always talk to your doctor before taking any supplements.
Appetite Suppressants
Appetite suppressants work by tricking your brain into believing your body is full. Some also control sugar cravings, so you're less tempted to indulge in sweets and junk food. Most appetite suppressants sold over the counter have not been evaluated, except for ephedra. Ephedra is effective for appetite suppression but is now banned in the U.S. because of its serious side effects, which include heart failure and death. Other appetite suppressants include chromium, hoodia and guar gum.
Fat Blockers
The only FDA-approved weight loss pill sold over the counter is Alli. Alli is a milder version of Xenical. Alli contains 60mg of the drug orlistat, while Xenical contains 120mg per pill. Fat blockers prevent your body from absorbing the fat you get in your diet, cutting the amount of calories that get into your system. The fat that's not absorbed passes right through, undigested. If you eat meals that are high in fat, you might experience side effects when taking Alli. These include hard-to-control bowel movements, gas with an oily discharge and loose stools. Other over-the-counter fat blockers include chitosan and guar gum.
Fat Burners
Fat burners, sometimes sold under the name "calorie burners" are pills that increase metabolism, causing you to burn more calories without changing your activity level. According to MayoClinic.com, many of the calorie burners or fat burners in the market are either unsafe or likely to be unsafe. This is because fat burners contain stimulants that can cause serious side effects. Bitter orange, chromium, country mallow and green tea extract are all fat burners. Conjugated linoleic acid is the only fat burner that might be effective, although there are no definite studies on its efficacy.
Prescription Weight Loss Pills
There are two types of prescription weight loss pills: appetite suppressants and fat blockers. According to MayoClinic.com, you need to have a body mass index greater than 30 to receive a prescription for a weight loss drug. This means you have to be clinically obese or you won't qualify. People who have a BMI of over 27 and also have a medical condition aggravated by obesity can also qualify. Medical conditions that can be worsened by weight include high blood pressure, diabetes and heart problems. Examples of prescription appetite suppressants include phentermine, sold under the brand name Adipex-P, and benzphetamine, sold as Didrex.
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