hCG Activator is a diet pill claimed to boost is human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). hCG can have side effects.

See also: hCG Activator Review

hCG Activator pros

• hCG Activator is manufactured to high standards in the US
• A diet protocol is included with the product
• hCG Activator comes with a guarantee

hCG Activator cons

• None of the ingredients are likely to significantly boost hCG levels
• Most clinical studies indicate that hCG does not promote weight loss
• There are side effects associated with hCG

hCG side effects

Side effects reported from taking hCG drops or receiving hCG injections include light headedness, headaches, trouble sleeping, tiredness, joint pain, muscle aches, leg cramps, hair loss and dry skin. If hCG is used for too long and in too high a dose by men, the resulting rise in natural testosterone will eventually inhibit its own production via negative feedback on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.

hCG Activator ingredients

The hCG Activator formulation contains human chorionic gonadotropin glycopeptide stimulating complex (758 mg) which consists of L-arginine, N-acetyl L-carnitine, L-ornithine, green tea leaf extract, saffron extract, black cohosh and huperzine. Other ingredients are gelatine, cellulose, silica and magnesium stearate.

Looking at the ingredients in greater detail:

L-arginine: An antioxidant which is soluble in water and fat. L-arginine has been linked to enhanced immunity, the release of the human growth hormone, greater muscle mass, rapid healing from injury, increased sexual potency and helping to reverse atherosclerosis. However, there is no evidence that L-arginine can boost hCG levels. There can be some circulatory side effects associated with L-arginine. Individuals recovering from heart attacks should not take this compound. There is a risk of excessive bleeding because L-arginine dilates blood vessels. Hemophiliacs and people on blood thinners should probably avoid L-arginine. Sometimes L-arginine can make problems of low blood pressure more severe. In addition, individuals with sickle cell disease may find that their symptoms get worse after taking L-arginine. One of the most severe potential side effects of L-arginine is anaphylaxis - a very severe allergic reaction that can result in shock and potentially even death. In an anaphylactic reaction sudden chills, sweating, tremors, hives, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath and light-headedness or fainting may be experienced. If you have any allergies, do not take L-arginine before being tested for allergy to it.

N-acetyl L-carnitine: This ingredient is an amino acid that is associated with energy production from fat stores in the body. It may help reduce symptoms of angina, diabetic neuropathy and memory impairment. However, there are no studies to indicate that N-acetyl L-carnitine has a direct effect on weight loss. Potential side effects of N-acetyl L-carnitine include stomach discomfort and insomnia.

L-Ornithine: L-ornithine is a non-essential amino acid that it is abundant in protein foods such as meat, fish, dairy and eggs. It can induce the release of growth hormone (HGH) in the body, which in turn help promote fat metabolism. There appears to be no link between L - ornithine and weight loss or HCG production. L-Ornithine can cause more frequent recurrences of herpes outbreaks. In addition, there is a link between psychotic episodes and an increased intake of L-Ornithine. This amino acid may also accentuate the adverse effects of diabetes. The use of L-Ornithine can also cause increased gastrointestinal distress. When this amino acid stimulates increased production of HGH the side effects might include excessive facial bone growth and malformation, joint swelling and pituitary gland malfunction.

Green tea: Green tea has been shown to promote modest weight loss. However, it needs to be taken in relatively high concentration, and to contain high levels of catechins. In Adipril, the amount of green tea present in the formulation is not indicated. Users of green tea sensitive to caffeine could experience any of the following side effects: irritability, restlessness, nausea, insomnia, tremors, heart palpitations, upset stomach, frequent urination and skin rash.

Saffron: This is a spice commonly used in cooking. In a recent clinical study (Nutrition Research. 2010; 30(5):305-313)) saffron was evaluated as a satiety enhancer. After 2 months, the participants using the saffron extract reported a decline in snacking and lost significantly more weight than the control group. Saffron seems safe for most individuals when used as a medicine for up to six weeks. Some possible side effects include dry mouth, anxiety, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, change in appetite and headache. Allergic reactions can occur in some people. Ingesting large amounts of saffron is not safe. High doses can cause: a yellow appearance of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes; vomiting; dizziness; bloody diarrhea; bleeding from the nose, lips, and eyelids; numbness; and other serious side effects. Doses of 12-20 grams can be fatal. Pregnant women should not take saffron in amounts larger than those normally found in food. Larger amounts of saffron can make the uterus contract and might cause a miscarriage. Not enough is known about the safety of saffron during breast-feeding and thus the compound should be avoided. Saffron can affect mood. There is a concern that it might trigger excitability and impulsive behavior (mania) in individuals with bipolar disorder. People who are allergic to certain plants might also be allergic to saffron.

Black cohosh: This herb has been traditionally used to treat menopausal symptoms, as a diuretic and for the treatment of infertility, painful menstruation, gynecological conditions and painful labor. Reported side effects of black cohosh include weight gain in addition to headaches and stomach discomfort. Weight gain, in fact, is listed as a common side effect in clinical trials that followed patients who took black cohosh for up to six months. Weight loss is not a reported side effect of black cohosh therapy.

Huperzine A 1% (Huperzia serrata): This is an alkaloid isolated from a Chinese moss (Huperzia serrata) that has neuroprotective and cognitive effects. Huperzine A seems to be safe when used for a short time, such as less than one month. However, it can cause some side effects including nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, sweating, blurred vision, slurred speech, restlessness, loss of appetite, contraction and twitching of muscle fibers, cramping, increased saliva and urine, incontinence, high blood pressure, and bradycardia. Not enough is known about the use of huperzine A during pregnancy and breast-feeding and therefore the compound should be avoided. Huperzine A can slow the heart rate. Since huperzine A seems to affect brain chemicals, there is concern that it might make epilepsy worse. There is concern that using huperzine A might make GI tract blockage worse. That is because huperzine A can increase mucous and fluid secretions in the intestine, causing “congestion.” The use of huperzine A might also make peptic ulcers asthma, emphysema and blockage of the urinary or reproductive system worse. Some of the anticholinergic drugs can interact with huperzine A decreasing the effects of these drying medications. Drugs for Alzheimer's disease also interact with huperzine A and might increase the effects and side effects of these medications.

hCG Activator dosage

The serving size is 2 capsules. There are 120 capsules per container.

Dieters Cheating Caps can cause possible side effects. Individuals who have allergic reactions to crabs, shrimps and related seafood should avoid this diet pill because Chitosan is an ingredient extracted from crustaceans. It is also possible to experience muscle cramps due to indigestion and water retention (feeling bloated) after taking Dieters Cheating Caps. Uncontrolled bowel movement and diarrhea is also a possibility due to the fact that less fat is digested and remains in the digestive tract. Glucomannan can become a choking hazard if not consumed with plenty of water.

See also: Dieters Cheating Caps Review

Dieters Cheating Caps pros

• There is a money back guarantee

Dieters Cheating Caps cons

• There are medical concerns about the long-term use of fat absorbers and appetite suppressants due to their potential negative impact on healthy nutrition
• The manufacturer of Dieters Cheating Caps does not promote a healthy diet and exercise as part of a weight loss program
• Chitosan is not suitable for individuals suffering from shellfish allergies
• Dieters Cheating Caps are not the only diet pill that contains glucomannan and white kidney bean extract
• There is a small number of customer testimonials on the Dieters Cheating Caps website and no before and after photos
• No details are provided on the official website concerning the name of the manufacturer, a contact address or details of where Dieters Cheating Caps are manufactured – always a red flag

Dieters Cheating Caps ingredients

Dieters Cheating Caps contains three ingredients, glucomannan, chitosan and white kidney bean extract. Looking at the ingredients in greater detail:

Chitosan (750 mg): This is a sugar that is extracted from the hard outer skeleton of shellfish, including crab, lobster, and shrimp. Chitosan is used to treat high cholesterol and Crohn’s disease. Clinical studies have shown that Chitosan has no positive effects on weight loss (see Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 2004;28(9):1149-1156, Singapore Med J. 2001;42(1):6-102, J Am Coll Nutr. 2006;25(5):389-394). There is significant evidence that long-term use of high-dose chitosan supplementation can result in malabsorption of some key vitamins and minerals including calcium , magnesium , selenium , and vitamins A , D , E , and K . This could lead to a risk of osteoporosis in adults and growth retardation in children. Another possible risk of taking high doses of chitosan long-term is that it could change the intestinal flora and allow the growth of health threatening bacteria. There has been a case report of arsenic poisoning caused by long-term use of chitosan supplements. Shellfish can concentrate arsenic in their shells and this may lead to chitosan supplements with an arsenic content. Pregnant or nursing women and young children should probably avoid chitosan altogether. Possible side effects may include headaches, swollen heels and wrists, breathing problems or tightness of the chest or throat, as well as chest pain and skin hives, rash, or itchy or swollen skin. There is also concern that people with allergies to shellfish might also be allergic to chitosan. In addition, there is some concern that taking chitosan might increase the blood thinning effects of warfarin (Coumadin). Taking chitosan in combination with warfarin (Coumadin) could increase the chance of bruising or bleeding.

Phaseolus vulgaris (white kidney bean extract) (750 mg): This ingredient is known to have numerous benefits particularly the ability to block starches. It can achieve this by blocking the alpha-amylase enzyme. This has the effect of preventing carbohydrates from being converted into fat – instead, they are removed from the body before they enter the blood stream. Since it prevents the proper digestion of carbohydrates, white kidney bean extract can cause several gastrointestinal side effects, including heartburn, excessive gas and diarrhea.

Glucomannan (750 mg): This is a soluble fiber. Studies have shown that glucomannan can promote weight loss by absorbing dietary fats. Glucomannan can cause side effects that include gas, bloating, nausea, stomach pain and diarrhea. Glucomannan also has the potential to bind with and reduce the absorption of certain nutrients. Glucomannan may interfere with blood sugar control. Monitor blood sugar closely if you have diabetes and use glucomannan.

Dieters Cheating Caps dosage

Serving size is 3 capsules per day. A container of Dieters Cheating Caps contains 30 capsules.

The modern fast paced lifestyle often leads to unhealthy eating habits with minimal if any real exercise. This frequently results in unwanted weight gain. To counter this problem many people try diet pills. Diet pills have different mechanisms of action – single or multiple.

Fat Burners: Many diet pills are formulated to boost fat burning in the body. They often achieve this by elevating the metabolic rate. Unfortunately they generally come with side effects.

Appetite Suppressants: These pills suppress appetite so that less food is eaten. If the body is deprived of nutrition it has to utilize its fat stores to provide energy and this promotes weight loss.

Fat and Carbohydrate Blockers: Some diet pills incorporate special types of fibers and other ingredients that can either directly absorb or inhibit the absorption of dietary fats and/or carbohydrates.

Prescription Weight Loss Pills

Obesity generally requires long-term treatment to promote and sustain weight reduction. Use of prescription drugs may be appropriate for some people. While most side effects of prescription weight loss drugs are mild, serious complications have been reported. The use of these weight loss drugs should be combined with exercise and improved diet in order to lose and maintain weight loss successfully over the long term.

Types of Prescription Weight Loss Drugs

At present, most weight loss drugs approved by the FDA are for short-term use over a few weeks or months.

Appetite suppressants can be obtained by a doctor’s prescription or purchased over the counter. One common prescription appetite suppressant is phentermine. Another type of popular prescription weight loss drug is the fat absorption inhibitor Xenical. This drug works by blocking about 30% of dietary fat from being absorbed. A reduced dosage form of Xenical, called Alli, is now sold over-the-counter. Xenical is the only weight loss drug approved for longer-term use in significantly obese people. However, its safety and efficacy have not been established beyond two years. Unfortunately, unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects are associated with  this drug.

In general, Xenical is moderately effective, leading to an average weight loss of 13 pounds or so over a one-year period. Most of the weight loss is generally seen in the first 6 months.
Over the short term, weight loss from prescription drugs may reduce a number of health risks in obese people. However, there are currently no studies to determine the effects of these medications over the long term.

Non-Prescription Weight Loss Pills

After the FDA banned amphetamines as appetite suppressants, diet pill manufacturers started producing pills containing caffeine, ephedrine and phenyl-propanolamine. When combined together, these three compounds can act in a similar manner to amphetamines. In 1982, the FDA banned the triple combination of these substances as well. More recent appetite suppressant formulations included the combination of fenfluramine and phentermine (Fen Phen) and ephedrine (Ephedra). In 1997, the Mayo Clinic reported that Fen Phen had caused heart valve disease in 24 people, initiating lawsuits and widespread media coverage. The FDA has now also banned Ephedra.

There is now a bewildering array of weight loss products on the market. Most are not particularly effective, can have unpleasant side effects and are manufactured by companies with dubious track records.

What to Look for in a Diet Pill

In tracking down a safe and effective diet pill the following are essential:

• A quality website where the manufacturer provides contact details including a full mailing address
• A full list of ingredients, preferably with concentrations
• Clinical trial weight loss data on the diet pill itself or the key ingredients
• Convincing evidence of no significant adverse side effects

Best Non-Prescription Diet Pills

Below is a selection of leading diet pills with strong positive reviews:

Proactol: Proactol is a fat binder made from the Mexican cactus plant (Opuntia Fiscus-Indica). The fiber complex consists of a non-soluble fiber and a soluble fiber that both work in different ways. Proactol is clinically proven to bind dietary fat, reduce calorie intake from fat and suppress appetite. It has also been shown to reduce blood cholesterol levels. Proactol is the first natural diet pill to be approved by the United Kingdom MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency). This is one of the strictest medical regulatory agencies in the world, and Proactol bears their CE stamp of approval. In line with the clinical studies, many users of Proactol have been reporting appreciable weight loss with no side effects. The only side effects recorded to date are mild changes in stool consistency.

Zotrim: This is a fat burning diet pill that boosts the metabolism and curbs appetite. It contains a blend of 3 key ingredients – yerba mate, guarana and damiana. Because Zotrim is a propriety formulation it is not possible to determine ingredient concentrations. However, Zotrim has been evaluated in clinical trials and shown to promote weight loss. Based on clinical trial data the manufacturer states that Zotrim can deliver an average weight loss of 11 lbs in 6 weeks, or 1-2lbs a week. No appreciable side effects have been reported during these clinical studies.

Meratol: While no clinical studies have actually been carried out on Meratol itself – they have been undertaken on individual ingredients. Meratol combines 4 clinically evaluated extracts: brown seaweed extract; capsicum extract; cactus extract; and prickly pear cactus. Meratol simultaneously boosts metabolism, burns calories and inhibits the intake of carbohydrates. Meratol was recently featured in the British Daily Express newspaper where it was praised for aiding weight loss without side effects, or the need to change exercise and eating habits. As there have been no actual clinical studies on Meratol itself, it is difficult to judge how effective this diet pill really is. The manufacturer claims that “if you have more than 14lbs to lose you can expect to lose up to 4lbs in the first week, reducing to 1-2lbs a week thereafter”. This is backed up by numerous positive testimonials posted on the internet. While the side effects of Meratol have not been clinically evaluated user feedback would indicate that there are few if any, if the diet pill is taken at the recommended dose.

Capsiplex: This diet pill is apparently used by high profile celebrities. Capsiplex includes capsicum extract (chili pepper) with a small amount of caffeine, black pepper extract (piperine) and niacin known as the Capsimax Plus formula. Capsicum extract, the key ingredient in Capsiplex, has been shown to boost metabolic rate in clinical trials. However, to experience the full benefits of Capsicum it would be necessary to consume 10 grams on a daily basis. For most people this would cause major irritation to the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the stomach. Using a patented matrix of excipients and coatings the manufacturer of Capsiplex has produced a pill that has no adverse effects on the mouth or stomach. The outer coating has been designed to release the capsicum extract in the intestine, where no discomfort is felt. Capsiplex breaks down in the intestines, so that there is no burning sensation when voiding. The manufacturer claims that an individual with more than 14lbs to lose can expect to lose up to 4lbs in the first week, reducing to 1-2lbs a week thereafter taking the recommended dose of Capsiplex. To date no significant adverse effects have been reported on internet user forums.

Zotrim is a fat burning diet pill that contains a blend of 3 common diet pill ingredients – yerba mate, guarana and damiana. Because Zotrim is a propriety formulation it is not possible to determine ingredient concentrations. However, Zotrim has been evaluated in clinical trials and shown to promote weight loss.

See also: Zotrim Review

Zotrim pros

• Zotrim is manufactured by a reputable company
• Zotrim has been evaluated in numerous clinical trials
• Zotrim has been shown to have no significant short term side effects in clinical studies
• There is a 100% money-back guarantee offered with Zotrim supplements.
• Customer testimonials are posted on the official website

Zotrim cons

• Some ingredients found in Zotrim may not be suitable for some individuals
• A full product ingredient list is not provided for Zotrim on the official website
• Zotrim has to be taken three times daily with water, which may prove to be inconvenient for some users

Zotrim side effects

Although the clinical studies performed on Zotrim revealed no significant side effects, the 3 prominent ingredients contained in this supplement have been reported to cause some adverse reactions in individuals. Without knowing the concentrations of these ingredients, it is difficult to assess whether or not Zotrim could cause health problems for some users.

Due to the fact that Zotrim contains caffeine, people sensitive to caffeine could experience headaches, nausea, jitters or shakes. Zotrim is not intended for children under the age of 16. The potential risks of the 3 major ingredients have not been established clinically for pregnant or nursing women. Zotrim is known to contain at least two different sources of caffeine. Medical practitioners advise nursing or expecting women to limit the amount of caffeine they consume. Additionally, individuals who are allergic to plants, have heart conditions, high blood pressure, smoke, suffer from anxiety, bleeding conditions, have osteoporosis, or have glaucoma should consult a doctor before taking Zotrim. This diet pill does slow stomach empting, so people that has digestive disorders or have a diet with a high fat content should use this diet pill with caution.

It has been documented that the clinical studies performed on Zotrim did not report any significant side effects. However, the ingredients yerba mate, guarana and damiana have been reported to elicit side effects in some individuals at high doses. Unfortunately, the manufacturer does not reveal the concentration of the ingredients in Zotrim.

Zotrim ingredients

A list of Zotrim ingredients is not available on the official website. Only 3 ingredients in the Zotrim formulation have been revealed namely:

Yerba Mate: A South American shrub that contains the xanthine alkaloids caffeine, theobromine and theophylline. Yerba mate contains about half the caffeine of coffee. Theobromine and theophylline are stimulants, although they have a less potent effect on the central nervous system (CNS) than caffeine. Flushing, nausea, vomiting, irritability, nervousness, increased urination and headache may occur with yerba mate. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact a doctor promptly. Stronger but very infrequent side effects include stomach pain, yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine, fever, muscle twitching and unusually fast/slow/irregular heartbeat.

Guarana: Guarana is a common ingredient in many popular stimulant-based weight loss pills. It is included primarily for its caffeine content (caffeine is a potent thermogenic agent) but it also has anti-oxidant and diuretic properties. Harvested in Brazil and Uraguay, this wild-growing climbing shrub has been used for centuries as a general health-tonic and recently as an energizing drink. Guarana may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Side effects can include anxiety, diarrhea, headache, increased urination, nausea, nervousness, shakiness, tremors, trouble sleeping, upset stomach and vomiting.

Damiana: A shrub that grows in the South Western United States and Mexico. Damiana herb has been used as a general tonic for both men and women, particularly when hormone-related conditions are present. The herb also has antidepressant, anti-anxiety, diuretic and mild laxative effects. Damiana is relatively safe in regular doses, although the long term effects of Damiana use have not been evaluated. Damiana does have a traditional background as an abortive and therefore should not be taken during pregnancy. Damiana also has a mild hypoglycemic effect, so those on diabetes medication or those who suffer from hypoglycemia must use caution with this supplement. Damiana may interfere with the body’s absorption of iron, and iron levels should be monitored while on this herb. The safety of this supplement in children has not been tested so it should not be used.

Zotrim dosage

The manufacturer recommends that Zotrim is taken 3 times per day with water, at a dose of up to 3 tablets each time depending on body-mass. The best time to take Zotrim is 15 minutes prior to a meal. If breakfast is not normally taken then the manufacturer recommends that just one dose of Zotrim is taken in the morning followed by a further 2 doses with main meals.

Zotrim conclusion

It is disappointing that a full list of ingredients in Zotrim, or their concentrations has not been made available on the official website. This would allow potential users to evaluate all of the ingredients, and better gauge potential side effects.

According to the official website, Meratol simultaneously boosts metabolism, burns calories and inhibits the uptake of carbohydrates. However, no clinical studies appear to have been carried out on Meratol – only on individual ingredients. The manufacturer, Advanced Health Ltd, claims that there are no serious side effects associated with Meratol, but this does not appear to have been verified in a clinical trial of the product itself. Individual ingredients in Meratol could potentially cause side effects in some individuals.

See also: Meratol Review

Meratol side effects

Meratol is not suitable for vegetarians and vegans because the capsules contain gelatine. There is no evidence presented by the manufacturer that clinical studies have been carried out on the safety of Meratol itself. Brown seaweed extract, an ingredient in Meratol has been reported to cause nausea and diarrhea in some individuals, particularly at higher doses. This extract has a high iodine content which could lead to thyroid problems at high doses. On the official Meratol website, the manufacturer states that no iodine related side effects have been seen, but again the manufacturer presents no evidence that Meratol itself has been clinically tested. Some people are allergic to another ingredient in Meratol, prickly pear cactus.

In addition, the effects of potential interaction between the various ingredients in Meratol have not been clinically evaluated.

The manufacturer recommends that the following groups do not take Meratol, or consult a doctor first:

• Pregnant women (consult a doctor first)
• Breastfeeding women
• Cardiovascular patients (consult a doctor first)
• Children (consult a doctor first)

Meratol pros

• The ingredients in Meratol have been individually tested in clinical trials and are believed to be safe for healthy individuals
• There are numerous positive user testimonials
• The manufacturer is well established and has a good reputation in the industry

Meratol cons

• No clinical studies appear to have been carried out on the Meratol diet pill itself, so the weight loss and toxicology claims of the manufacturer have not been scientifically verified
• The official product website has few testimonials
• Meratol does not come with a money back guarantee

Meratol dosage

Meratol is taken once a day (two tablets) in the morning before breakfast. There are 60 capsules in a bottle, which is 1 month’s supply.

Meratol ingredients

Prickly pear cactus: This plant is used in herbal medicine. It is composed of soluble and insoluble dietary fibers. These fibers are claimed to bind dietary fat and thus prevent it from being absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Little information is available on the side effects of prickly pear cactus. Dermatitis is the most common adverse reaction to prickly pear. Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation due to the lack of clinical studies. Some individuals are allergic to prickly pear cactus. Symptoms can include chest pains, difficulty breathing, skin rashes, water loss, and an increased frequency of bowel movements. An additional adverse effect may include exacerbation of hypoglycemia if combined with oral hypoglycemic agents.

Brown seaweed extract: Because it is an excellent source of iodine, brown seaweed extract can improve thyroid function, potentially increasing metabolism and energy, and decreasing weight gain. The iodine, calcium and other minerals in brown seaweed extract are readily absorbed by the body, assisting digestion and correcting relevant mineral deficiencies. Brown seaweed extract has been reported to cause nausea and diarrhea in some individuals, particularly at higher doses. This extract has a high iodine content which could lead to thyroid problems at high doses.

Cactus extract: This extract is beneficial in reducing cholesterol levels and promoting weight loss. Cactus extract also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, and may even ease hangover symptoms. For most healthy adults there are no serious side effects in consuming cactus extract. However, mild side effects in some individuals may include headache, nausea, diarrhea and bloating. Individuals with kidney or liver disorders should not take cactus extract without consulting a doctor first. With diabetic patients extreme caution should be used when taking certain medications to control the disease when consuming cactus extract. Always consult a physician before taking cactus extract due to the risk of developing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and other adverse effects.

Capsicum Extract: Red hot chilies or capsicum extract is the principal ingredient in Capsiplex (a weight loss product also made by Advanced Health Ltd which is included in the Meratol formulation) while caffeine, black pepper extract (piperine) and niacin are also present. For a full review of capsicum side effects see: Capsiplex Side Effects. To minimize the side effects of concentrated red hot capsicum extract, the tablet has a specially designed coating. Capsicum has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness or purity. Capsicum contains capsaicinoids, which are the family of compounds that cause the intense heat experienced when consuming chili peppers. Capsanicinoids help to promote thermogenesis, carbohydrate oxidation and stimulate fat oxidation. Side effects for capsicum have been reported infrequently. These include upset stomach, heartburn, hot flushes and diarrhea. However, it is potentially unsafe to take capsicum by mouth in large doses or for long periods of time. In rare cases, this can lead to more serious side effects such as liver or kidney damage.

Meratol conclusion

Meratol is made by a well regarded company, Advanced Health Ltd, in Scotland. They are open about Meratol’s composition, so that it is possible to research the ingredients beyond the information provided on the website. The manufacturer does not back its “no serious side effects” claims with clinical trial data on for Meratol itself, only on individual ingredients (from studies carried out by other companies or research groups). The ingredients in Meratol could potentially cause side effects in some individuals.

“Combo-pilling” is a more radical approach to slimming. It has been used for some time by numerous famous celebrities, and is now becoming increasingly popular with the general public.  Combo pilling involves the dubious practice of combining two or more diet pills, rather than just taking a single pill. Pill combinations include, Xenadrine and Hydroxycut, SlimTron HGS and Hype and Zantrex-3 and Smartburn for Women.The most popular diet pill combination is Zantrex-3 and Relacore. Zantrex-3 is a stimulant-based pill that is claimed to boost fat burning and energy levels, while Relacore is believed to have a calming effect, and to counteract the fat stimulating effects of the stress hormone cortisol. Many claim that the weight loss effects of both pills are considerably enhanced when taken together. Combo-pilling is a potentially dangerous practice because the side effects of diet pills can be amplified when taken together.

How does combo-pilling work?

The basic concept behind combo-pilling is to take two or more diet pills simultaneously to increase metabolism, reduce appetite and enhance mood. The most popular pill cocktail is Zantrex-3 and Relacore. This is claimed by many users to considerably magnify the weight loss benefits that can be achieved by taking the two pills separately. Zantrex-3 is claimed by the manufacturer to promote rapid weight loss through fat burning and to deliver a major energy boost. Relacore is marketed as a mood elevating, anti-stress pill that promises to stop the anxiety hormone cortisol in its tracks, thus reducing belly fat.

To have the optimum weight loss effects it is believed that the diet pill combination should have the following properties:

1. Boost metabolism
2. Enhance thermogenesis
3. Suppress appetite
4. Block carbohydrate absorption
5. Bind dietary fat
6. Cleanse and detoxify
7. Relieve stress

Side-effects of combo-pilling

Taking two or more diet pills in combination can be potentially dangerous because the number of side effects increases and the magnitude of these effects can be amplified. For example, Zantrex-3 side effects include stimulant related effects such as the jitters, increased heart rate, nausea, restlessness and cold sweats. Withdrawal symptoms have also been reported by some users when Zantrex-3 usage is terminated. Side-effects that have been reported by some slimmers taking Relacore include blurred vision, tiredness, and changes in blood pressure.

Combo-pilling pros

• Numerous positive testimonials have been posted claiming enhanced weight loss

Combo-pilling cons

• There is no clinical evidence supporting the use of combo-pilling or information on its safety
• Multiple side effects can be experienced
• Many diet pill brands are of dubious quality and no details of the manufacturer, the country where pills are made, product quality control and purity, or a contact address are provided