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Prescription vs. Over the Counter Medications
Many people find themselves confused by all of the available prescription and over the counter medications on the market for weight loss. Are over the counter weight loss pills as effective as prescription pills? Are over the counter medications safer? Why should a person choose one over the other and what are the differences between them?
The Differences
You may find it surprising that Americans diagnose and treat themselves for common health problems, like overweight or obesity, fOur times more often then they turn to a doctor for help. Often people use this self-help approach because they think drugs sold over the counter are safer since they are available without a prescription. But the fact is that over the counter drugs are less regulated than FDA approved prescription weight loss medications.
In addition, these over the counter diet pills, herbal supplements and "fat burners" often contain amphetamine-like active ingredients. These type of active ingredients act as stimulants which theoretically increase the metabolism and help the body break down fat. But, despite the claims often made by over the counter pill-manufacturers, the use of over the counter products alone does not cause weight loss.
Even though many of the prescription and over the counter drugs used today are derived from plants, there is a big difference between them. Prescription medications, which must be approved for use by the FDA, are based on an active ingredient. Prescription medications are generally far more effective than over the counter drugs.
Because they require a prescription, you will have a doctor look at your medical history and determine if the prescription weight loss medication will be safe for you to use.
Over the counter drugs, like any medication, can interfere with the effectiveness of other medications you may be taking. They also can put a toxic amount of a certain drug in your system by taking them in conjunction with other medications, even other over the counter drugs for non-weight loss issues.
Since a prescription weight loss medication requires a consultation with a doctor (be it online or in person) you will be advised by the doctor about these potential conflicts and can often avert a disaster before it happens.
Regardless of whether you choose to use over the counter or prescription weight loss pills, consult with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any other types of medications to ensure the combination can be used safely.
The Similarities
All weight loss and diet pills, whether prescription or over the counter in nature, are only effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan. As hard as advertisers may try to make you believe there really is a magic pill, there is not.
The only true way to lose weight is to change your lifestyle. However, weight loss medications can help give you a boost towards weight loss. But, the effects will only last as long as you are taking the medications, unless you also commit to living a healthier life.
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