You may notice there are a wide variety of weight loss products, including diet pills, to choose from, but knowing which ones are effective can be difficult. Most diet pills are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. If you're breastfeeding after pregnancy, your breast milk could become contaminated with medication. Ask your health-care provider what is right for you.
Alli
Alli is the generic, over-the-counter version of the prescription drug orlistat. Alli has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for both safety and effectiveness. Alli works by blocking some of the dietary fat your body absorbs from meals, which helps you lose weight. Common side effects associated with Alli include diarrhea, oily stools, gas, stomach cramping and oily discharge. The over-the-counter version of Alli is not as strong as the prescription drug orlistat, but it should still be taken as directed. The FDA has investigated reports of liver damage caused by Alli, but these cases are rare. If you experience liver problems, let your doctor know right away. Indications of a liver problem include pain in the upper right region of your abdomen, discolored or yellow-colored eyes and skin, dark urine, fatigue and loss of appetite.
Conjugated Linoleic Acid
Conjugated linoleic acid is typically referred to as CLA. MayoClinic.com rates CLA as possibly effective and possibly safe when used as directed. CLA works by reducing body fat and increasing muscle mass. Muscle burns fat, which helps you lose weight. You can purchase CLA over-the-counter.
Phentermine
Phentermine is a commonly used prescription weight loss drug, according to MayoClinic.com. Phentermine is a stimulant that works by suppressing your appetite. While phentermine is a powerful prescription drug, you must still exercise and diet to lose weight while taking the medication, according to Drugs.com. Common side effects associated with phentermine include dizziness, increased heart rate and blood pressure and insomnia.
Diethylpropion
Diethylpropion works similarly to phentermine to help treat obesity. Diethylpropion does require a prescription, as it is a powerful drug, and is to be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise. The side effects associated with diethylpropion include restlessness, anxiety, insomnia, dry mouth , diarrhea and decreased sex drive. Drugs.com warns that this drug is habit-forming; talk to your doctor about the possibility of becoming dependent upon this medication.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Over-the-Counter Weight Loss Pills: Do They Work?; Mayo Clinic Staff; Feb. 2010
- MayoClinic.com: Weight Loss Drugs: Can a Prescription Help You Lose Weight?; Mayo Clinic Staff; Oct. 2010
- Food and Drug Administration: FDA Safety Communication: Complete Safety Review of Xenical/Alli (orlistat) and Severe Liver Injury; May 2010
- Drugs.com: Phentermine Information; June 2010
- Drugs.com: Diethylpropion; Dec. 2010
- MayoClinic.com: Liver Problems: Symptoms; Mayo Clinic Staff; April 2011
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