Diet Pills can be extremely tempting, especially when a person is a few pounds over weight and having trouble dieting. Diet drugs are not to be taken without the advice of a doctor. Plus, most pills are effective only for a short amount of time.

Therefore, patients are usually instructed to take diet pills only on a short-term basis and prescription diet pills are only prescribed for a little while. The maximum weight loss with diet pills generally takes place within six months. Patients who are at an increased health risk because of their weight are the only ones who should take diet pills. Those who only want to lose 10 or 15 pounds should not take diet pills.

Consultation

Consultation with a doctor before taking diet pills is also important because some pills do not work. Most also have dangerous side effects. People who take any prescription medications should be careful before taking any dietary supplements because the reactions can be severe.

Ephedra

Ephedra is a metabolism booster that was recently taken off the market in the United States as a result of safety concerns. The risks associated with ephedra are heart attack, increased blood pressure, and even worse reactions, such as death. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is considering re-legalizing ephedra, though.

Xenical

Xenical is one of the newest diet medications. When taken with a low-calorie diet Xenical can help those who are significantly overweight lose the extra pounds. It also helps prevent patients from regaining weight they previously lost. Xenical works by blocking some of the fat that the intestine usually digests. This drug has several side effects.

Meridia

Meridia is a drug for people who need to lose 30 pounds or more. It should also be used in conjunction with a reduced calorie diet. Meridia can substantially increase blood pressure or heart rate so patients who already have increased risks in this area should stay away from Meridia.

Meridia works on the appetite control center in the brain. Rather than suppressing appetite, Meridia works in the portion of the brain that triggers fullness. Some patients stay on Meridia after their initial weight loss because it can help keep the weight off.