Diet pills are a method to help you lose weight by decreasing your appetite and burning more calories. Over-the-counter diet pills are generally not as safe as prescription formulas, because they are not monitored by the FDA. However, many weight loss hopefuls turn to over-the-counter weight loss supplements because they are not candidates for prescription diet pills, or they simply cannot afford them. You should always consult with a doctor prior to taking any weight loss formula to prevent side effects and interactions.
Requirements
Over-the-counter diet pills are easy to purchase. They are widely available in grocery stores, health food stores and online. You do not need a prescription, although it is advisable that you ask a doctor before taking a weight loss supplement. To obtain a prescription diet pill, you must first see a doctor. He will evaluate your overall health and your body mass index, or BMI. Your BMI is a number based on your weight and height ratio. Diet pills are generally prescribed if your BMI is over 30 or if it is over 27 and accompanied by hypertension or diabetes.
Effects
Over-the-counter diet pills contain different herbs that work to increase calories burned, decrease your appetite, increase your metabolism and decrease the amount of fat absorbed in the body. Prescription diet pills aim to help you lose up to 10 percent of body fat which can help prevent health diseases through a decrease in blood pressure, blood glucose levels and lipid levels.
Safety
The ingredients in over-the-counter weight loss pills lack evidence that proves they are effective or safe. Ephedra is a common ingredient in weight loss pills you can purchase online, but was banned for sale in the United States by the FDA due to cardiovascular risks. Bitter orange is an herb that purportedly helps you burn calories, but is deemed unsafe by the Mayo Clinic. Common side effects of over-the-counter diet pills include increased urination, diarrhea, nausea, anxiety, dizziness, hypertension, liver damage, seizures, kidney damage, heart attack and stroke. The safety and efficacy of prescription diet pills is monitored by the FDA. However, these drugs are not without risk. Prescription diet pills may cause gastrointestinal effects, dizziness, increased heart rate and hypertension.
Bottom Line
Over-the-counter diet pills are not a safe weight loss solution. Not only can they pose dangerous side effects, but the safety of the ingredients is not backed by scientific evidence. Although some diet pills are marketed as "all natural", the herbal ingredients still have the potential to interact with prescription medications. The Mayo Clinic says real weight loss is achieved by long-term changes in diet and exercise. However, prescription diet pills may be help if you have a high BMI or a medical condition that warrants rapid weight loss. Your physician can determine if you are a candidate for prescription diet pills. Although prescription diet pills still pose a risk of side effects, they are generally safer than over-the-counter versions.
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