With more than two-thirds of adults in the United States being overweight or obese, diet pills have become like candy -- available in various colors and shapes and at every supermarket and drug store. But just because the pills are accessible does not mean they're safe or effective. If you're looking for the right diet medication, be prepared to sift through numerous options.
Green Tea Extracts
More than a social beverage and antioxidant-rich herb, green tea is a weight loss medicine. Over-the-counter extracts are shown to speed up the metabolism, increase energy and promote water weight loss through increased urination. The scientific explanation for such results is called thermogenesis -- a process that the "Journal of Medicinal Food" in a 2006 study notes is associated with increased weight loss among dieters. Although the extracts are safe for most people, the herb's safety depends largely on the quality of the product. Talk to a trusted health-care professional about safe herbal diet pills.
Phentermine
Phentermine, sold with the brand name Adipex-P, is an FDA approved stimulant prescription and appetite suppressant for short-term use. By affecting the central nervous system, the drug works to keep hunger at bay and thereby assist dieters with weight loss. As prescribed, the drug is to be used with diet and exercise, and by those who are obese and have weight-related health risks such as diabetes, hypertension or high cholesterol. The drug is not right for people who have certain medical conditions, take certain medications or have a mere few pounds to lose. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of phentermine.
Orlistat
Orlistat is an FDA-approved diet pill that is available in a milder brand-name form over the counter called Alli. The pills are potentially safe, although people with certain underlying medical conditions should not use the drugs. Bothersome side effects can occur if the drugs are not used in conjunction with a low-fat, reduced-calorie diet. By blocking absorption of fat in your diet, the drug allows you to pass the fats undigested through bowel movements. Dieters who consume too much fat experience frequent, loose bowel movements and excessive gas. Additionally, because orlistat decreases your body's absorption of some fat-soluble vitamins, deficiencies can occur in users who do not use vitamin and mineral supplements. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using orlistat, particularly if you have diabetes, liver disease or are using other medications.
Considerations
Although these products are safe for most dieters, you should never use any diet medicine without a doctor's advice. Even natural products carry risks, some of which are equal to or worse than those occuring with conventional drugs. The same holds true for non-herbal over-the-counter medicines. In fact, because the Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate over-the-counter drugs, they're safety and dosages is uncertain. The best way to select a safe product is to do so with the advice of a doctor or herbalist.
References
- Mayo Clinic; Weight Loss: Is Phentermine A Good Option For Weight Loss?; Donald Hensrud, M.D.; October 2009
- Drugs.com: Phentermine
- "Journal of Medicinal Food"; Green Tea Extract Thermogenesis-Induced Weight Loss...; Shixian Q, et al.; 2006
- MedlinePlus; Green Tea; November 2010
- MayoClinic.com; Orlistat; November 2010
- Drugs.com: Orlistat
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