What are the consequences of taking weight loss pills

Taking weight loss pills may cause adverse reactions such as palpitations, digestive system disorders, metabolic abnormalities, and in severe cases, can lead to liver and kidney damage or psychological dependence. Common consequences include dizziness and fatigue caused by appetite suppressants, electrolyte imbalance caused by laxatives, and endocrine disorders caused by hormonal drugs.

1. cardiovascular risk:

Weight loss pills containing ephedrine or caffeine can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to tachycardia and elevated blood pressure. Clinical data shows that about 15% of users experience chest tightness and palpitations, and long-term use may induce arrhythmia. Some drugs that illegally add sibutramine have been proven to increase the incidence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events.

2. Digestive system damage: Lipase inhibitors such as orlistat may cause fat diarrhea and anal oil leakage, with 30% of users experiencing abdominal pain and diarrhea. Weight loss products containing stimulant laxatives such as senna can lead to intestinal melanosis, and long-term use may damage the function of the intestinal nerve plexus.

3. Metabolic disorders:

Thyroxine based weight loss drugs interfere with the normal metabolic rhythm, which may cause hyperthyroidism symptoms such as hand tremors and excessive sweating. Some products illegally add the diuretic furosemide, causing hypokalemia and elevated uric acid, increasing the risk of gout attacks.

4. Hepatorenal toxicity:

Weight loss drugs containing phenolphthalein or aristolochic acid have clear hepatorenal toxicity, and clinical cases have shown that continuous use for 3 months may cause elevated transaminase levels. Some traditional Chinese patent medicines and simple preparations weight loss products will lead to chronic renal function damage due to excessive heavy metals.

5. Mental dependence:

Amphetamine appetite suppressants may produce euphoria, and withdrawal symptoms such as depression and anxiety may occur after discontinuation of the medication. A survey shows that about 25% of users develop psychological dependence, and some individuals experience binge eating rebound.

It is recommended to lose weight through healthy methods such as diet control and exercise, maintain a daily calorie deficit of 500 calories, and engage in 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week. When cooking, choose low-fat methods such as steaming and cold mixing to increase the intake of whole grains and dietary fiber. Intermittent fasting can be attempted, but excessive dieting should be avoided. It is recommended to control the weight loss rate at 2-4 kilograms per month, as rapid weight loss may lead to complications such as gallstones. If medication is necessary, one should choose approved drugs such as orlistat under the guidance of an endocrinologist, and regularly monitor liver and kidney function.