non-prescription products for weight loss
overview
many over-the-counter products for weight loss are available at drugstores, at supermarkets, and online. many of these have never been proved effective. and those that are effective often come with warnings.
as with all over-the-counter medicine, be sure to follow the directions on the label.
these products include:
- appetite suppressants.
these medicines often work by making you less hungry.
- water-loss pills.
diuretics, such as diurex, only get rid of water. they don't reduce the amount of fat in your body.
risks of taking over-the-counter weight-loss products
the risks of taking over-the-counter weight-loss products depend on which ones you take.
be careful with:
- appetite suppressants.
- using these medicines to control your weight for long periods of time can be dangerous. appetite suppressants are meant to be used only for a few weeks.
- do not use these medicines if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney problems, thyroid problems, glaucoma, or depression.
- water-loss pills.
diuretics, such as diurex, reduce your weight by getting rid of water in your body. this may lead to dehydration or loss of essential minerals. using water-loss pills this way is not recommended and can be dangerous.
tell your doctor about any other prescription and over-the-counter medicines, or natural health products you are taking.
credits
current as of: may 13, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
current as of: may 13, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
