While those who profit from over-the-counter medicinal weight loss supplements typically promise fast results without the need for diet or exercise, the promises often come without scientific research or evidence. Medicinal supplements avoid government testing and can put your health at risk, especially if you are taking other medications. Alert your doctor before considering any supplement to lose weight.
Significance
Although many people -- including some celebrities -- embrace medicinal supplements as a method to achieve fast weight loss, evidence is lacking to prove that the products deliver effective results. The non-prescription supplements are easily available online or at most drugstores and bypass the rigorous testing applied to prescription medications. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, has the power to recall supplements that are shown to have dangerous side effects, although the products can be sold without advance proof of safety.
How They Work
Medicinal weight loss supplements typically contain a variety of ingredients that may include herbs, vitamins and botanicals. Some products feature caffeine and laxatives. The supplements often work by increasing your need to urinate or have bowel movements or by giving you a full feeling that can delay the time between meals. Many medicinal supplements are designed to accelerate your nervous system.
Ingredients
Some medicinal supplements include ephedrine, an ingredient used to create illegal methamphetamines. Side effects of ephedrine are insomnia, high blood pressure, heart attacks and stroke. St. John's wort is also a common ingredient in weight loss supplements and reacts negatively with a variety of medications, while oral aloe often triggers diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Cascara, sometimes used to relieve constipation, is often contained in supplements and should be avoided by women who are pregnant, as the herb causes unhealthy levels of electrolytes. Glucomannan supplements elevate your risk for intestinal blockages and blood sugar problems and present a serious threat to people with diabetes.
Theories/Speculation
Although some medicinal weight loss supplements trigger short-term weight loss, people who consume the supplements often regain the weight once they discontinue use of the products and resume their former eating habits. The Cleveland Clinic reports that those who manufacture herbal supplements and make guarantees about the safety and effectiveness of the products typically have little knowledge of the products or how they function in your body. The healthiest and most effective method for weight loss is through healthy eating and regular exercise.
Considerations
Some doctors prescribe medications that can assist in weight loss for patients who are obese, or dangerously overweight. The medications typically work by preventing your body from digesting fat or by reducing your appetite. Headaches, nervousness, pain in the abdomen and nausea are common side effects of prescription weight loss medications.
Potential
Avoid the risks associated with medicinal supplements by adopting a healthy diet and exercise plan to lose weight. Notify your doctor prior to taking any supplement that promises quick weight loss and check online for FDA updates about products that have been banned or recalled due to safety concerns.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Dietary Supplements Not Without Risks
- FamilyDoctor.org: Prescription Weight-loss Medicines
- Cleveland Clinic: Over-the-Counter and Herbal Remedies for Weight Loss
- Harvard Medical School: Are Drugs Lurking In Your Dietary Supplements?
- MayoClinic.com: Over-The-Counter Weight-Loss Pills: Do They Work?
- MayoClinic.com: Weight-Loss Drugs: Can A Prescription Help You Lose Weight?
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