People looking for a quick fix when losing weight often resort to purchasing weight loss pills over the counter. But before doing that, there are some things you should consider. After all, there’s a reason it’s recommended to consult your doctor before starting a weight-loss regimen, especially when using over-the-counter pills.
Types of Weight Loss Pills and Their Side Effects
Stimulant type weight loss drugs such as phentermine (Adipex-P) can lead to increased blood pressure, restlessness, insomnia, drug dependence, abuse, and even withdrawal symptoms. Weight loss pills that interfere with fat absorption, like orlistat (Alli), can cause soft stools, gas, and oily spotting.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists can usually lead to several stomach side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and more. These medications include liraglutide (Saxenda) and semaglutide (Wegovy).
Bupropion and naltrexone (Contrave) are drugs that affect neurotransmitters in the brain to curb appetites. These drugs have been linked to headaches, dry mouth, dizziness, and stomach complications.
Then there are the popular Hydroxycut type pills, which are dietary supplements sold without a prescription. They are a family of dietary supplements marketed as weight loss aids. Their key ingredient is Robusta coffee extract or C. canephora robusta. Supplement companies don’t have to prove their products’ safety or effectiveness like drug manufacturers do.
In 2009, Hydroxycut was recalled due to reports made to the FDA of liver problems, seizures, and a condition known as rhabdomyolysis (a muscle-damaging condition). Although Hydroxycut products no longer contain the ingredients in question, there are still many potential side effects associated with dietary supplements.
Another Side Effect of Dietary Supplements
Most people noticed that the dietary supplements and weight-loss products were only working as long as they were on them. After they discontinue their use, many people report that they regain most, if not all, of the weight they had previously lost in only a few weeks or months.
The Most Effective Type of Weight Loss is Diet and Exercise
There isn’t a shortcut to effective weight loss; it starts in the kitchen and continues in the gym. A healthy, balanced diet, combined with regular exercise, is the best method to lose weight and feel healthy. This method isn’t necessarily the quickest for weight loss, but it’s better for your overall health.
At West Coast Strength, we’re a community that promotes healthy, stable weight loss by making sure our members feel welcome. Our top-rated gym has all the amenities you need to start a healthy weight loss regimen, including new equipment, such as cardio machines, free weights, saunas, and more. We also have several group training programs available. Contact us today and start your free seven-day trial membership.
