Weight loss drugs and supplements are readily available over the counter and through physicians, but some substances are used for dieting even though that is not their primary use. Pseudoephedrine is approved by the FDA as a decongestant, but some consumers believe it helps them shed pounds and buy it for that purpose instead of its intended function.
Definition
Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant commonly found in cold and allergy medications. The drug reduces nasal and sinus congestion and relieves pressure, according to PubMed Health, and is used primarily to treat cold and allergy symptoms. Pseudoephedrine works by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages. It is sold without a prescription, but retailers store it behind the counter because it is a popular ingredient in methamphetamine production.
Use
Pseudoephedrine is used primarily for its decongestant properties, but some people consider it a weight loss drug because of its close relationship to the diet aid ephedra. Both ephedra and pseudoephedrine are present in the ma huang herb. The FDA banned the use of ephedra in diet supplements, even though it helped some people with short-term weight loss, because it also raised blood pressure and posed a risk for strokes and heart problems. The ban did not affect chemically synthesized ephedrine used in cold and allergy remedies, so consumers can still use decongestant products for weight loss, even though there is no evidence that it is an effective diet aid.
Side Effects
Over-the-counter medications containing pseudoephedrine are not mean for long-term use. The drug's common side effects include nausea, vomiting, weakness, headaches and restlessness, according to PubMed Health. Normally they are harmless and disappear when you stop using the drug, but they can cause problems if you take it regularly as a diet aid. More serious effects include dizziness, insomnia, stomach pain, racing heart, nervousness and breathing problems. These issues may require medical attention.
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: nervousness, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, stomach pain, difficulty breathing, fast, pounding or irregular heartbeat
Warning
Pseudoephedrine can interact with other drugs, including other medications commonly used for weight loss. Do not take the drug as a diet supplement if you are taking any other diet pills or anything else containing caffeine. Pseudoephedrine should not be mixed with beta blockers or certain antidepressants like amitriptyline, clomipramine and imipramine, according to Drugs.com. It can cause problems in people with high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma, an enlarged prostate gland, heart disease and thyroid problems. Ask your doctor to recommend a safe, effective weight loss aid rather than pseudoephedrine, which is not proven to help with weight loss despite anecdotal reports.
References
- PubMed Health; Pseudoephedrine; May 2011
- Consumer Healthcare Products Association: Methamphetamine Abuse and Pseudoephedrine
- Vitamins & Health Supplements Guide; Ma Huang (Ephedra)
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine; Consumer Advisory, Ephedra; July 2009
- Drugs.com: Pseudoephedrine
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