Losing weight isn't easy and unless you're Super Woman, you're probably going to need a little help along the way. Friends, family, the Web, groups, diet programs, and books are all helpful ways to get support.
But if your idea of getting a leg up on losing weight is popping a pill ... there are a few things you need to consider.
When people refer to "diet pills", these can be two very different things: Weight loss supplements are sold over the counter (OTC). These are as near as your local drugstore, where you'll find an aisle offering everything from pills to teas that promise weight loss. Weight loss medications, however, are available only by prescription from a physician.
The most important thing to remember about weight loss supplements is just because they're available over-the-counter, that doesn't mean they're necessarily safe. Known side effects to OTC weight loss supplements include serious gastrointestinal problems, dermatitis, and sleep disruption. In extreme cases, such as ephedra, OTC products have caused potentially fatal reactions.
OTC supplements can also interact with other medications you may be taking. This can be dangerous if you're using medication to control serious conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
Taking medication without your doctor's knowledge is a risky prospect in and of itself. Remember, the clerk at the health food store who recommends a product doesn't know the first thing about your medical history or the other medications you're taking; but your doctor does.
Then there's the fact that there is little research to prove that OTC weight loss supplements work. Have you ever noticed those ads' small print says, "When used in conjunction with exercise and diet."? If you expect a pill to do what only diet and exercise can, you'll find you've lost more money than weight.
If your efforts to eat right and exercise just don't bring the results you'd hoped for and you're interested in medication to lose weight, discuss your concerns with your physician and find out if it is an option for you.
There are three types of weight loss medication: those that suppress the appetite with amphetamine-like effect; a second type of appetite suppressant called sibutramine; and third, orlistat, which prevents the absorption of some of the fat you eat. All have potential side effects and none should be used indefinitely.
Keep in mind that weight loss medications are intended only for individuals who have a significant amount of weight to lose.
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