Metabolife 356 is a caffeine-based weight loss pill that contains herbs such as ginseng, guarana, ginger and ma huang, or ephedra. Manufacturers claim the weight loss pill reduces appetite and increases metabolism. The ingredients are meant to induce heat production in the body that burns calories and suppresses the appetite. Though consumer groups and manufacturers lobbied against it, the Food and Drug Administration banned the sale of products containing ephedra in 2004 because of serious side effects.
Nervous System Abnormalities
The sympathetic nervous system is directly stimulated by the ingredients in Metabolife 356, report researchers at Vanderbilt University. The bronchial tubes become dilated and the heart is stimulated. Ephedrine, which is made from the herbal components in ephedra, opens up receptors in the heart and lungs and does have the capacity to increase metabolism and burn calories. Ephedrine properties are similar to amphetamines, however, and can cause serious side effects to the nervous system functions. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, heart palpitations and nerve damage are immediate threats from Metabolife 356 use. Some of the dangerous side effects reported by the FDA include deaths from stroke and heart attacks. Consumers who take Metabolife 356 are subject to nervousness, tremors and heart rate irregularities. Many people suffer from insomnia, while others may experience muscle injury, memory loss and seizures.
Mental Side Effects
People who are prone to panic attacks can have adverse side effects from Metabolife 356 because of the guarana, caffeine and ephedra combination. Psychosis has been reported in some people taking the diet pill. Personality and behavior changes were reported in people taking the supplement. The ingredients in Metabolife 356 can exacerbate mental disorders already present, particularly bipolar disorder and depression. Irritability, restlessness and thoughts of suicide also can be side effects of the drug.
Other Side Effects
While not everyone who takes Metabolife experiences life-threatening side effects, there are common side effects that cause discomfort and lifestyle interruptions such as nausea and dizziness. Headaches, chest pain and sleeplessness are commonly reported side effects that the manufacturer reports. Metabolife 356 often causes gastrointestinal difficulties and diarrhea. Side effects of caffeine are well documented as well. The caffeine in Metabolife 356 can cause increased urination and vomiting. While usually safe for healthy people, excess caffeine consumption can cause birth defects and affect those with a history of heart disease and breast cancer. Metabolife 356 can cause both physical and mental addiction and create withdrawal symptoms when discontinued that include headache and irritability.
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