Too Many North Americans Taking Diet Pills
However, some research studies have reported negative side effects of these products, such as heart attacks; strokes; anxiety; sleeplessness; migraines; and seizures. Diet pills are of particular concern to those who have diabetes or high blood pressure. Information from the Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) was utilized in this two-year study, recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers questioned nearly 15,000 adults about weight-loss product use; physical characteristics; presence of diabetes; and various lifestyle choices.
Obesity rates in the US are increasing, which may lead to an increase in the use of diet pills. If you are trying to lose weight for any reason, avoid taking diet pills. The Food and Drug Administration has taken steps to remove phenylpropanolamine (PPA), the active ingredient in Acutrim and Dexatrim, from all drug products. Sound nutrition and consistent, moderate exercise, although not as simple as popping a pill, are safer alternatives.
Reference: Blanck HM, Khan LK, Serdula MK. Use of nonprescription weight loss products: Results from a multistate survey. Journal of the American Medical Association 2001:286(8), pp. 930-935.