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Once considered a problem of the developed nation, Obesity now, is spreading rapidly to the poor and under developed nations as well. The World Health Organization denotes individuals who have a Basal Metabolic Index (BMI) of higher than 25 as overweight and ones higher than 30 as obese. However, a BMI higher than 21 can itself increase propensities for health disorders.

A simple reason for this morbid problem is too many calories are ingested, in the form of refined flour and sugar and not much is expended due to a sedentary life style.
A fast life style compounds the problem by not allowing enough time for a daily regimented exercise routine. As a result, individuals are looking forward to quick fixes by way of Diet pills that promise a faster result without having to sweat. These diet pills have dangerous side effects and also cause eating disorders.

Broadly, there are two types of Diet pills, the over the counter varieties and the prescription ones. The prescription ones are part of a holistic approach towards weight loss, wherein both exercise and diet is regulated under medical supervision. The over the counter varieties which are sold have no regulation by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) but are a multi million dollar industry proving their enormous consumption. They are usually labeled as dietary supplements.

Prescription Diet Pills and their dangers.

Phentermine/ Fenfluramine these appetite suppressants belonging to the addiction forming amphetamine family of drugs have serious side effects. They caused valve related disease in hearts of many patients. As a result, FDA took the combination drug off the market and only Phentermine is now prescribed. Side effects of the single drug include insomnia, increased blood pressure and nervousness.

Xenical (alli as over the counter)- this drug inhibits an enzyme (pancreatic lipase) that prevents triglycerides from being broken down and absorbed in the intestine, thus leaving them undigested to pass out during a bowel movement. These drugs cross react with immunosuppressant like Cyclosporin (given to organ transplant patients). They cause urgent and frequent bowel movements and oily, loose stools.

Meridia- these amphetamines have been reported to cause seizures and cardiac arrhythmias. They increase bood pressure, insomnia, dry mouth and have been indicated to expedite other ailments like eating disorders, hypothyroidism, glaucoma and stroke.

Bontril- these addiction forming amphetamines are highly regulated. Side

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