Why Appetite Suppressants Are Dangerous For Weight Loss

With the rise of social media and celebrity endorsements, appetite suppressants have become popular “quick fixes” to help with losing weight. But while they’re often marketed as an easy way to shed unwanted pounds, many are unregulated, and some may even be dangerous to your health.

The idea of suppressing your appetite might sound appealing – after all, it means you can avoid calorie counting, cutting out the foods you love, or hours spent in the gym lifting weights. But studies have found that the dangers of taking appetite suppressants outweigh the benefits.

Instead, you should focus on weight loss alternatives that are safe, sustainable and support your overall wellbeing. There are plenty of effective ways to help you achieve your weight loss goals without putting your health at risk. We’re here to help you choose the right, safe, and most suitable method for you.

Key Takeaways

1 | Unregulated appetite suppressants can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening

2 | Many appetite suppressant supplements have no clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness

3 | Safe, regulated alternatives are available through licensed healthcare providers

The History Of Appetite Suppressants

Appetite suppressants have been around for decades, but their history doesn’t always make good reading.

The first medication that was discovered to have appetite suppression effects was amphetamine. It was effective, but came with a number of unwanted side effects. Subsequent medicines like Reductil (sibutramine), which is chemically related to amphetamine but without such potent side effects, were commonly prescribed to help with weight loss. These drugs worked by affecting the brain's hunger signals, making people feel fuller while eating less food.

However, safety concerns led to their withdrawal. Reductil, for example, was linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, outweighing its benefits. In 2010, it was officially removed from the market in the UK and across Europe due to these serious risks.

Today, previously prescribed appetite suppressants are no longer available in the UK. The focus has shifted to safer, evidence-based weight loss methods like Orlistat or Mounjaro. While appetite suppressants may seem like a shortcut, their history highlights the importance of prioritising your safety over the temptation of quick fixes.

Why Unregulated Appetite Suppressants Are Dangerous

Unregulated appetite suppressants may promise quick results, but they come with serious risks. Many of these supplements contain questionable ingredients like DNP (2,4-dinitrophenol), ketones, matcha, or acai. While some may sound harmless, others, like DNP, are highly toxic and have been linked to fatal side effects. Others claim to help you lose weight, but with no scientific evidence to support that it can.

The biggest issue with these products is their lack of regulation. Unlike medications approved by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency), unregulated supplements often haven’t been tested for safety or effectiveness. This means you can’t always be sure exactly what’s in them or how they’ll affect your health.

Without clinical evidence to back their claims, these products could do more harm than good, potentially causing heart problems, digestive issues, or worse. To lose weight safely and sustainably, always opt for regulated, evidence-based treatments and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Who Should Not Take Appetite Suppressants?

Over the counter or unregulated appetite suppressants can be dangerous for anyone due to unknown ingredients, lack of testing, and unpredictable side effects. Even “natural” or herbal options may cause unwanted side effects. And you may be at risk even if you are fit and healthy. For those with existing conditions the potential for harm can be even greater.

Avoid taking appetite suppressants if you have a heart condition like high blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat, these products could put your health at serious risk.

They’re also not recommended if you have mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or an eating disorder as they can worsen your symptoms. If you’re on medication such as antidepressants, blood pressure tablets, or blood thinners appetite suppressants can interfere with how they work.

If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing other health concerns, it’s best to avoid them altogether. Always speak to your doctor before trying appetite suppressants to ensure they’re safe for you. Your health is far too important to take unnecessary risks.

Safe And Regulated Weight Loss Alternatives

With appetite suppressant dangers well known, you’re better off sticking to the legitimate weight loss medications available in the UK. These include over the counter options like Orlistat and prescription-only weight loss injections:

Orlistat

Orlistat works by blocking the enzyme called lipase found in your digestive system. This means that 30% of the fat you eat passes through your system undigested and is eliminated in your poo. It is available over the counter in 60mg doses and on prescription at the higher 120mg dose. It’s commonly used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and exercise to support weight management

Weight Loss Injections

Weight loss jabs like Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Nevolat imitate hormones which affect appetite. They reduce “food noise”, slow digestion and increase feelings of fullness, making it easier to eat less and get rid of cravings

Unlike unregulated supplements, these medications have been rigorously tested and are clinically approved. Even if you’re considering taking safe weight loss alternatives, medical supervision is essential to tailor the treatment to your specific needs, monitor your progress and minimise side effects. Choosing regulated options gives you the best chance of achieving long-term, sustainable weight loss.

Always Remember...

It is essential that you speak to a licensed medical professional before starting any weight loss medication. They can provide personalised, expert guidance, assess potential risks and ensure that your chosen treatment is safe and suitable for your health needs.

Choose Your Treatment Wisely

If you’re taking medication to support your weight loss, safety should always come first. Unregulated supplements may promise quick results, but they often carry serious risks and lack scientific backing. Choosing regulated treatments, like Orlistat or weight loss injections such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, ensures you're using an effective treatment with the right medical guidance.

For tailored advice and safe weight loss solutions, start with a professional consultation. Speak to a healthcare expert today and make the smart, safe choice for your health and wellbeing.

If you’re ready to take the next step on the path to long-term weight loss, speak to one of our medical experts today. A discreet weight loss consultation takes just three minutes. Our experts will make recommendations tailored to your individual needs, ensuring the best results for your health and your goals.

Sources:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S016372580700188X#:~:text=Appetite%20suppressants%20have%20been%20available,stimulant%20and%20elevates%20blood%20pressure

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3550200/

https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1113/EP090430

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9376390/

https://www.center4research.org/will-acai-help-lose-weight/#:~:text=The%20acai%20palm%20produces%20a,suddenly%20or%20quickly%20lose%20weight.