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Weight Loss Interventions That Are Not Recommended
➤ Human chorionic gonadotropin injections (HCG) combined
with extreme diets have had some notoriety. No evidence
substantiates the claim that HCG has an effect on weight beyond
the caloric restriction in the "HCG diet".
➤ Diuretics or laxatives may cause water loss. They can be
dangerous and are not an obesity treatment.
➤ Amphetamines (such as dextroamphetamine or
methamphetamine) were used historically but have high abuse
potential and are not appropriate for obesity management.
➤ The FDA does not approve compounded drugs, thus the FDA
cannot assure the safety, efficacy, or purity of compounded drugs.
OTC Supplements and Alternative Weight-Loss Aids
➤ A vast market of dietary supplements, herbal remedies, and OTC
products claim to aid weight loss.
➤ Clinicians should proactively inquire about any weight loss
supplements patients may be using and provide education
regarding realistic expectations and potential risks.
➤ In summary, the current evidence does not support the
recommendation of any herbal or over the counter supplements
for substantial weight loss, and some may pose health risks.
Potential Risks
➤ "Natural" does not equal "safe." Serious adverse events have
been linked to weight-loss supplements:
• Cardiovascular: potentially fatal cardiac events
• Hepatoxicity: acute liver injury
• Nephrotoxicity: acute kidney injury
• Adulteration: undeclared pharmaceuticals
