Some people may abuse diet pills because they desire to be thin or if they have an eating disorder. Different diet pills work in different ways; some work to make you feel full so you eat less, while others block dietary fat absorption. If you begin to feel as if you must have diet pills or cannot go without taking them, talk to your health care provider. Diet pills can be very addicting.
Eating Disorders
People who suffer from eating disorders may be more susceptible to abusing diet pills, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. People with bulimia nervosa may abuse diet pills in addition to actions such as self-induced vomiting, over-exercising, reduced food consumption and abuse of laxatives and diuretics. Diet pills can be used to keep you from overeating, which is why those with eating disorders may abuse them --- to keep from eating too much or gaining weight.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines are stimulants. Many diet pills contain stimulants and are classified under the amphetamine group because of the affects they can cause, according to KidsHealth. Amphetamines are also known as "uppers" and "speed." Diet pills contain ingredients that may make you feel more alert, energized and restless. The sense of alertness and energy that you may feel from diet pills is not necessarily a good thing. The stimulants can increase your pulse, respiration and heart rate. Abusing this type of stimulant could lead to heart attack and possibly cause death.
Increased Risk of Panic Attacks
Diet pills may increase the risk of panic attacks, according to HelpGuide.org. Abusing diet pills can especially increase this risk. Those who suffer from panic attacks or panic disorder should not take diet pills or other stimulants and should avoid consuming too much caffeine. Those who suffer from anxiety and panic disorders may notice intensified feelings of fear, dread or anticipation.
Signs and Symptoms
It is possible to become addicted to diet pills and abuse them. The addiction can be psychological and physical. Some psychological symptoms to watch for include the constant urge or need to take the pills, and mood swings. Physical signs and symptoms can include stomach pain, nausea, confusion, numbness and tingling in limbs and vision or hearing problems. If you are experiencing these symptoms and take diet pills, talk to your health-care provider.
References
- TeensHealth.org: Prescription Drug Abuse; June 2010
- TeensHealth.org: Drugs: What You Should Know; July 2008
- HelpGuide.org: Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Impact of Anorexia, Bulimia and Obesity on the Gyencologic Health of Adolescants; Aug. 2001
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