For decades dieters have been searching for the magic pill--one that promotes weight loss without diet or exercise. Advertising claims such as, "Lose weight while you sleep" or "Lose up to 14 pounds in 5 days" spur on the hope. In reality it seems the search for a safe and effective diet pill is futile, as the percentage of overweight and obese people continues to increase.
Herbal Diet Remedies
Pills containing the acai berry extract, the hoodia plant---which promises to suppress the appetite---or other herbal combinations have been proven neither effective nor safe for weight loss. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate the purity or effectiveness of these dietary supplements. Unless they are shown to cause harm, they can remain on the market and make claims such as "pure," "fast acting," "fat-burning," or "suppresses appetite" without having to offer proof. See the disclaimer: "This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA," which you will find underneath the product raves on the package.
Over-the-Counter Diet Pills
Diet pills containing stimulants, such as caffeine or ephedrine, sometimes provide the consumer with a feeling of more energy or a curbed appetite. However, they often have harmful side effects, and are not proven through research studies to promote weight loss. Virtually all diet pills provide a package insert outlining a well-balanced, low-calorie diet to follow, along with the recommendation that the pills should be used for six to eight weeks to assist with weight loss until the person has established healthier eating habits. No diet pills, including the FDA-approved Alli (a lower strength dose of the prescription orlistat), are proven to promote weight loss without reducing calorie intake.
Prescription Appetite Suppressants
Currently on the market are phentermine (brand name Adipex) and sibutramine (brand name Meridia). Patients who take these medications as directed lose an average of 5 to 10 percent of their body weight within the first 6 months. Weight loss slows drastically after that point, according to the statistical reports from both of the drug companies. A diet and exercise program is prescribed in conjunction with the medications. Blood pressure and lab tests are monitored routinely to detect potential side effects.
Prescription Fat-Blocking Pill
Orlistat (brand name Xenical) is the prescription fat-blocking pill which prevents about 30 percent of dietary fat from being absorbed. It works by binding to the enzyme that digests fat and preventing the calories from becoming available to the body. The resulting weight loss is similar to other prescription medications: about 5 to 10 percent of body weight in the first six months with little weight loss thereafter.
The Bottom Line
Diet pills may aid in weight loss by increasing adherence to a lower-calorie diet plan through a reduced appetite or restricting fat intake. The Mayo Clinic reports diet pills can increase weight loss by 5 to 10 percent. No magic pill yet exists that promotes weight loss without changing diet and exercise routines. In order to promote weight loss it is necessary to reduce calories eaten and/or increase calories burned.
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