Phenorex is a fat burning diet pill manufactured by Gaspari Nutrition. Two strong stimulants, caffeine and Advantra Z, are included in the Phenorex formulation. They are both associated with side effects.

Phenorex pros

• Manufactured to a high standard by an established manufacturer
• Numerous positive user testimonials

Phenorex cons

• There are several strong stimulants in Phenorex which can cause side effects
• Phenorex is primarily designed for Gym enthusiasts and may be too strong for the average dieter

Phenorex side effects

Reported Phenorex side effects include headaches, jitteriness, nervousness, irritability, insomnia, indigestion, nausea, dizziness, anxiety, facial flushing, insomnia, dry mouth and elevated heartbeat.

Phenorex ingredients

Phenorex contains the following ingredients:

Carnipure, Oxytropis Falcate Extract, Caffeine, Advantra Z Citrus Aurantium Extract, Paullinia Cupana Extract, 3,5 Diiodothyronine and 3,3 Diiodothyronine, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12 and Selenium.

Looking at the ingredients in greater detail:

Carnipure (l-carnitine l-tartrate): Carnitine is critical for energy formation and an active metabolism. Carnitine transports the fatty acids from blood into cells for energy production. Various forms of carnitine are used in fat burners, despite contradictory study findings. Effective doses (multi-gram doses) of carnitine greatly exceed those found in diet pills. In a study of 18 overweight subjects, carnitine significantly increased weight loss. The subjects were split into two groups of 9. One group was given 2000 mg of carnitine daily, and the other a placebo. In the placebo group, the average weight loss after 12 weeks was one pound. In the carnitine group, weight loss averaged 11 pounds (Ann Rev Nutr 1986;6:41-66). However in another study, individuals taking carnitine for 8 weeks did not experience increased weight loss (Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2000;10:199-207). With only 335 mg in the entire Phenorex formulation, the carnitine element can only be considered as suboptimal.

Oxytropis falcata extract: Also known as "locoweed", it is a toxic Chinese plant that has been used in ancient Chinese medicine for centuries as an anti-inflammatory. According to the manufacturer, Oxytropis falcata is standardized for biogenic amines, although they do not reveal which ones or to what potency they are standardized. It is believed to have the ability to reduce pain and work as a natural alternative to aspirin. However, Oxytropis falcate extract does not actually promote weight loss.

Caffeine: A recognized fatburner with clinically proven modest benefits for weight loss (e.g. Am J Clin Nutr. 1989;49(1):44-50; Am J Clin Nutr. 1980;33(5):989-97), although there are indications that it offers greater benefits to leaner individuals (Am J Physiol. 1995;269(4 Pt 1):E671-678). Caffeine can also enhance exercise performance.

Advantra-Z: This is a patented form of Synephrine, an alkaloid that is derived from Citrus aurantium. It is considered as a safe alternative to the now banned Ephedra and is believed to promote thermogenesis. Synephrine has replaced Ephedra in many popular fat burners. Manufacturers claim that Synephrine provides the "fat burning" effects of Ephedra, but without side effects such as sleeplessness, jitters, elevated blood pressure, etc. There are studies, however, that indicate that Synephrine can elevate blood pressure and heart rate (e.g. Ann. Pharmacother. [2006] 40(1):53-7). Advantra Z has failed to demonstrate any significant weight loss effects.

Paullinia cupana extract (standardized for purine content): Also known as guarana. This ingredient is a recognized thermogenic agent with clinically demonstrated benefits for weight loss (e.g. Am J Clin Nutr 1989; 49(1):44-50. Am J Clin Nutr 1980; 33(5):989-997), although some findings indicate that it offers greater benefits to lean individuals that to those who are overweight (Am J Physiol 1995; 269(4 Pt 1):E671-8). Guarana also delivers an energy boost. It is incorporated into many fat burners because of its caffeine content and diuretic properties.

35' Diiodothyronine and 33' Diiodothyronine: These are metabolites of the T3 thyroid hormone. Theoretically, supplementation with thyroid hormone derivatives can raise the levels of the T3 hormone, increasing metabolic rate and calorie burn.

Conclusion

Phenorex contains caffeine and Advantra Z, both strong stimulants that are commonly included in bodybuilding fat burner supplements. The average bodybuilder could take Phenorex and potentially see fat burning results, but the average dieter not used to stimulants could experience side effects.

Phenorex contact details

Gaspari Nutrition

575 Prospect St., Suite 230
Lakewood, NJ 08701

Toll Free: (888) 742-7727
Local: (732) 364-3777
Fax: (732) 364-5060

Website: http://www.phenorex.com/