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WEIGHT LOSS PILL TYPE: An Appetite suppressant and amphetamine like stimulant. Phendimetrazine was approved for weight management by the Food and Drug Administration in 1961. It is a schedule III controlled substance.

SOLD AS: Phendimetrazine comes in 35-mg tablets, 30 mg capsules, and 105-mg sustained-release capsules.

RESEARCH/COMMENTS: Phendimetrazine has been in use for approximately forty years, which means most of the research on this drug is quite dated.

WHAT IS IT SUPPOSED TO DO: Phendimetrazine stimulates the satiety (feeling of fullness) center in the hypothalamus and limbic parts of the brain, where appetite and craving for food are managed. There is some proof that phendimetrazine may in the short term improve the metabolic rate, but this has not shown. Phendimetrazine can result in weight reduction along with a rise in energy level. Nevertheless, weight reduction may be temporary only, particularly if the drug is discontinued. To keep up weight loss or to continue to lose additional weight after stopping phendimetrazine, it is vital to adhere to an intelligent eating plan and an exercise program.

HOW TO TAKE IT: The standard dose is a 35-mg tablet or capsule 3 times daily before meals, or a 105-mg sustained release capsule before lunch. In order to avoid sleeping problems, take the regular tablets 4 to 6 hours before going to bed or the sustained capsules 10 to 14 hours before you retire. Because drug tolerance develops within 3 to 12 weeks: phendimetrazine should nt be used for longer than 3 months.

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose immediately unless it is nearly time for your next one, In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

SIDE EFFECTS: Typical side effects include restlessness; insomnia; dizziness; tremors; palpitations; blurred vision; constipation; dry mouth; and change in sex drive. Uncommon effects include very high blood pressure; hallucinations; cardiac arrest; coma; convulsions; and death. On February 13, 1998, a “black box” warning was included with the product’s labeling suggesting that there is a risk of valvular disease and primary pulmonary hypertension when taking this drug. This sort of warning is the strongest the industry issues for drugs and must be critically viewed as before taking phendimetrazine.

PRECAUTIONS: Use of phendimetrazine may slow up the effectiveness of any blood pressure drugs you are taking. If you use this drug along with MAO inhibitors or the antimicrobial drug furazolidone, it can boost blood pressure and your chance of stroke. If you suddenly stop taking phendimetrazine, you might encounter withdrawal symptoms such as’ extreme fatigue, depression, and trouble sleeping.

Do not take phendimetrazine if you are pregnant, may be pregnant, or are breast-feeding. Phendimetrazine is a schedule II drug, meaning it has a high possibility of abuse, greater than that of other nonamphetamine stimulants.

Talk to your doctor before taking phendimetrazine in case you are using any of these drugs, as negative interactions may occur: MAO inhibitors; phenothiazine tranquilizers; antihypertensive medications; insulin or oral diabetic medications; over-the-counter cough; cold, and asthma drugs. Avoid caffeine items while taking phendimetrazine.

SOLD AS: Capsules, usually 50 mg.

WEIGHT LOSS PILL TYPE: Amino acid. 5-hydroxytryptophan is a chemical precursor (something that precedes another) of the neurotransmitter serotonin. The supplement 5-hydroxytryptophan is a derivative of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia , which grows in the Ivory Coast and Ghana. The body produces 5-hydroxytryptophan from the amino acid tryptophan, which can be located in certain foods, including almonds, turkey, and cheese.

BACKGROUND/RESEARCH: Studies of 5-hydroxytryptophan for losing fat were first carried out in animals in 1975. In those days, researchers discovered that feeding 5-hydroxytryptophan to rats that were bred to overeat triggered these to eat far less food compared to tey normally ate. These reports led researchers to theorize that some individuals may be genetically predisposed to obesity as they have a diminished capability to convert tryptophan to 5-hydroxytryptophan which leads to low levels of another substance, called serotonin. Low levels of serotonin are related to obesity along with depression.

After the animal studies, three placebo-controlled, doubleblind studies in individuals were conducted in Rome, Italy, which demonstrated the benefits of 5-hydroxytryptophan.

One study included twenty obese women who were advised to not diet while they received either 5-hydroxytryptophan or placebo for 6 weeks. Then they were placed on a diet (1,200 calories per day) for 6 weeks while continuing to take 5- HTP or placebo. Females who had taken 5-hydroxytryptophan reduced their calorie consumption through the first 6 weeks and decreased their carbohydrate intake by 50 percent. In the second 6-week period, they decreased both their caloric and carbohydrate intake all the more. The women who had taken placebos showed hardly any reduction in calorie consumption, even if instructed to diet during the second 6-week period. These bits of information suggest that 5-hydroxytryptophan decreases yearnings for carbohydrates and thus the amount of calories consumed. An additional study of nineteen women had comparable results: women taking 5-hydroxytryptophan lost weight, even when they didn’t limit their calorie consumption.

WHAT IS IT SUPPOSED TO DO: Scientists believe that 5-hydroxytryptophan may be good at weight loss since it is able to chemically “trick” your brain into thinking you are full whenever you begin to eat, so that you are more unlikely to overeat and you will take in fewer calories. This principle is assigned to the idea that some individuals have a genetically caused decreased ability to convert tryptophan to 5-hydroxytryptophan which leads to their having decreased levels of the hormone serotonin. Low serotonin levels are related to obesity; research indicates that low amounts of this neurotransmitter produce cravings for carbohydrates that can be mild to severe. If you take supplements of 5-hydroxytryptophan, the body’s inability to convert tryptophan is bypassed, more serotonin is created, and the cravings subside.

HOW TO TAKE IT: Usually, manufacturers suggest taking 50 to 100 mg 5-hydroxytryptophan about 20 minutes before meals during the first 2 weeks. The dosage can be doubled if weight reduction is less than 1 pound per week after that time. 5-hydroxytryptophan should always be taken with a sufficient amount of vitamin B6 and zinc (a minimum of the suggested daily intake) since these nutrients help make the 5-hydroxytryptophan more accessible to the body, A high-quality multivitamin-mineral that supplies at least 25 mg vitamin B6 and 15 mg zinc is enough.

SIDE EFFECTS: Some individuals encounter mild nausea, heartburn, flatulence, and a feeling of fullness in the abdomen. At high doses (more than 300 mg per day) nausea is common. This symptom is usually transitory, but it may take several weeks to vanish.

PRECAUTIONS: Recent studies suggest that high blood levels of 5HT (serotonin) might cause problems for the heart muscle and fibrous growths on the aortic valve. This is regarded as what happened to users of fen/phen which also raised serotonin levels. Consequently, individuals who have heart problems, such as coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, or cardiomyopathy, shouldn’t take 5-hydroxytryptophan. In case you are using any kind of prescription or over-the-counter medication, talk with your doctor before taking 5-hydroxytryptophan. Most likely severe side effects, such as confusion or anxiety, may occur if you take 5-hydroxytryptophan while taking antidepressants, lithium, buspirone, leva dopa , or cold remedies that incorporate ephedrine or pseudoephedrine. If you’re taking antihistamines, muscle relaxants (e.g., carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or narcotic pain relievers, you would possibly experience excessive drowsiness.

Weight Loss Products containing 5-hydroxytryptophan

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WEIGHT LOSS PILL TYPE: A nonamphetamine Appetite suppressant, schedule IV controlled substance with low possibility of misuse. Mazindol was authorized for weight management by the Food and Drug Administration in 1973.

SOLD AS: Mazindol comes in 1- and 2-mg tablets.

RESEARCH: Many reports have considered the effectiveness and safety of mazindol. In a Japanese research released in 1995, the typical amount of weight lost was about 15 pounds when mazindol was utilized in addition to a very-law-calorie diet. About 53 percent of the patients kept the weight off after discontinuing the very low-calorie diet, at least for a little while. The patients also had improved cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood pressure levels. These extra rewards have been seen in other scientific studies as well.

Since it is hard for people to carry on and lose weight after being on a very-low-calorie diet and then going off of it, researchers looked at whether mazindol can help you in these situations. In 1996, Japanese scientists tested their theory in thirteen significantly obese women. They discovered that mazindol ended in additional weight loss averaging 15 pounds after 3-4 months of treatment. The women also had improved insulin sensitivity related to mazindol use, which triggered relatively stable blood sugar and energy levels.

One recent study (1997) noted that two men suffered a semen ike release while taking mazindol. This undesirable response was not listed with the expected side effects, and the research workers proposed that it be included in the list of adverse effect possibilities.

WHAT IS IT SUPPOSED TO DO: Mazindol stimulates the satiety (feeling of fullness) center in the hypothalamus and limbic regions of the brain, where appetite and hunger are controlled. In order to work, mazindol must he used in addition to a low-calorie eating plan,behavior modification, and a physical exercise program. Nevertheless, weight loss may be only short-term, especially after the drug is discontinued. To maintain weight loss or to continue to lose additional weight after stopping mazindol, it is necessary to follow a sensible eating plan and an exercise program.

DOSAGE: Mazindol should be used only under a doctor’s supervision and for no longer than 2 to 3 months. The typical dose is 1 mg 3 times per day, 1 hour before meals; or. 2 mg 1 time per day, before lunch. If stomach upset occurs, you can take it after meals.

SIDE EFFECTS: Although mazindol is not an amphetamine, it brings about a lot of the same side effects, including nervousness; restlessness; insomnia; euphoria; and overstimulation. Less frequent side effects include high blood pressure; heart palpitations; drowsiness or sedation; dizziness; tremors; headache; dry mouth; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; rash; itching; hair loss; muscle pain; sweating; chills; blurred vision; fever; changes in sex drive; urinary retention; testicular pain; and weakness.

PRECAUTIONS: Do not take mazindol if you have high blood pressure, thyroid disease, glaucoma, or heart disease, or if you are sensitive or allergic to any type of appetite suppressant – prescription or nonprescription. Avoid mazindol if you are prone to substance abuse, emotional agitation, or have suicidal thoughts. Older people should not get rnazindol unless under a doctor’s strict supervision. Mazindol can interact with other drugs. Due to the fact mazindol stimulates the brain and nerves, if it is taken along with other stimulants such as cold remedies, decongestants, and some asthma medicines, it can boost blood pressure and heart rate. Mazindol should not be taken within 14 days of any MAO inhibitor, as it may result in very high blood pressure. If you are getting high blood pressure medication, mazindol may counteract the medication.

Mazindol, like other appetite suppressants, often causes dry mouth, which can increase the chance of developing gum disease and dental cavities. Special attention to oral hygiene, including use of sugarless gum and sugarless hard candies, drinking lots of water, or sucking on ice chips, is recommended while taking these drugs .

Studies show that large doses of mazindol can harm the fetus. Do not use mazindol if you are pregnant or could be pregnant. Since it is not known whether mazindol passes into breast milk, women who are breast-feeding should not take mazindol.

WEIGHT LOSS PILL TYPE: Diethylpropion is an Appetite suppressant, sympathomimetic (causes a rise in blood pressure and a slowing of the heart rate), and central nervous system stimulant. It hasbeen approved for weight management by the Food and Drug Administration in 1959 and is a schedule IV controlled substance, with low potential for abuse.

SOLD AS: Diethylpropion is available as 25-mg tablets (immediate release) and 75-mg tablets (sustained release). ‘

RESEARCH: In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, patients taking diethylpropion hydrochloride lost an average: of 1.32 pounds per week compared with patients on placebo, who lost 0.84 pounds per week. At the end of the 12-week study, those who had taken diethylpropion lost an average of 15.9 pounds compared with 10.0 pounds for those taking placebo. The researcher noted that “amphetamine-like side effects were virtually absent.” However, amphetamine-like side effects, commonly associated with this drug.

The conclusions were comparable in another double-blind, placebocontrolled study. Scientists in New Zealand found that patients who took diethylpropion had considerably more weight loss than those who took placebo and that the side effects gone through by the drug-treated group were not drastically greater than those suffered by participants in the placebo group.

WHAT IS IT SUPPOSED TO DO: Diethylpropion stimulates the satiety (feeling of -fullness) center in the hypothalamus and limbic regions of the brain, where ‘appetite and hunger are controlled. Because diethylpropion has amphetamine-like qualities, it has the possibility to result in psychological dependency. This product can be efficient as a weight-loss agent if it is used in addition to a lowcalorie diet, behavior modification, and a routine workouts program. Nevertheless, weight loss may be only temporary, especially after the drug is discontinued. To maintain weight loss or to continue to lose additional weight after stopping diethylpropion, it is necessary to follow a sensible eating plan and an exercise program.

HOW TO TAKE IT: Diethylpropion is indicated for shortterm use (no longer than 12 weeks) for treatment of exogenous obesity (obesity caused by excess intake of calories). It is not indicated for cosmetic weight loss. If you are younger than sixty years, take a 25-mg immediate release tablet 3 times daily 1 hour before meals. For the sustained release, take a 75-mg tablet 10 to 14 hours before bedtime. If you are sixty years or older, you may need to reduce the dosage. Consult with your physician before you start taking this drug. Do not give to children younger than 12 years. If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as possible unless it is nearly time for your next one. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

SIDE EFFECTS: Common side effects include irritability and insomnia. Less common ones include anxiety; blurred vision; changes in libido; dry mouth; dysphoria (mood of restlessness, dissatisfaction, unhappiness; dizziness; euphoria; headache; hypertension; irregular or pounding heartbeat; nausea or vomiting; rash; sweating; and tremor.

PRECAUTIONS: Dierhylpropion should not be used by individuals who are allergic to the drug or by those who have a history of arteriosclerosis or hardening of the arteries; glaucoma; high blood pressure; cardiovascular disease; pulmonary hypertension; hyperthyroidism; alcohol or drug abuse; arrhythmias; kidney or thyroid disease; mental illness; or epilepsy. In particular, diethylpropion can dramatically increase blood pressure and the risk of stroke when combined with phenelazine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or furazolidone (Furazolidone).

Diethylpropion also should not be taken by individuals who have taken medicines of the MAO inhibitor class within the last 2 weeks or an anorectic substance within the last year. If you are getting any of these substances, consult your doctor before starting diethylpropion: amantadine; amphetamines; any medications for hyperactivity; any appetite-control drugs; chlophedianol; asthma medications, prescription or OTe decongestants or antihistamines; methylphenidate; nabilone; and pemoline. Do not take any other type of anorectic substance, including prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal product while taking diethylpropion. Avoid all foods, beverages, and medications that contain caffeine while taking diethylpropion. Inform your physician and dentist that you are taking diethylpropion before you undergo any type of treatment.

Diethylpropion has the potential to be addictive. If tolerance develops, gradually discontinue use while under the supervision of your doctor. Do not operate a motor vehicle or heavy machinery when taking this drug if you feel drowsy.

This drug should not be taken for longer than 3 months.

Longer use has been connected with a rise in the potential risk of building pulmonary hypertension, a rare but fatal illness.
No satisfactory reports have been done in pregnancy, consequently avoid using diethylpropion if you are pregnant or think you could be. Weight loss during pregnancy, even for obese persons, is not suitable as it can harm the fetus. It’s not at all established if diethylpropion is secreted in breast milk, thus it is most beneficial not to use this drug while breast-feeding.

Diethylpropion, like other appetite suppressants, often causes dry mouth, which can increase the chance of developing gum disease and dental cavities. Special attention to oral hygiene, including use of sugarless gum and sugarless hard candies, or sucking on ice chips, is recommended while taking these drugs.